Helping Kids Get Ready for Trick-or-Treating: A Sensory-Smart Halloween
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year — costumes, candy, flashlights, and friends! But for many kids, especially those with sensory sensitivities or self-regulation challenges, trick-or-treating can be more overwhelming than fun. Between itchy costumes, bright lights, and noisy crowds, it can be hard for little bodies to stay calm and confident.
5 Occupational Therapy Tips to Prepare for Trick-or-Treating
Start with Sensory Prep Before Heading Out
Halloween night brings tons of excitement and surprises — and kids’ bodies need to feel grounded before all that stimulation begins.
Try a few minutes of heavy work (deep pressure movement that activates muscles and joints) before heading out the door.
OT-approved ideas:
Wheelbarrow walks down the hallway
Carry a pumpkin bucket filled with small toys or beanbags
Push hands against a wall (“pumpkin pushes”)
These simple movements help regulate the proprioceptive system, helping your child feel calm, focused, and ready for fun.
2. Make Costumes Comfortable and Familiar
Costumes are exciting — but not when they’re scratchy, tight, or hard to manage.
OT Tips for Sensory-Friendly Costumes:
Layer soft, familiar clothing underneath
Practice wearing the costume for short periods before Halloween
Swap masks for face paint (or skip face coverage altogether)
Remember — a themed hoodie or Halloween PJs count, too!
Comfort builds confidence. When your child feels good in what they’re wearing, they can focus on the experience — not the sensory discomfort.
3. Use Visuals and Predictable Routines
Halloween can be full of unexpected moments — but predictability helps reduce anxiety.
Ways to make the night more structured:
Use a simple visual schedule or checklist for each step of the night
Tell your child how long you’ll be out (“We’ll visit 10 houses, then home for hot chocolate”)
Plan a short route and include rest stops
Bring a wagon or stroller for breaks if needed
When kids know what’s coming, their bodies and brains can stay regulated and ready for fun.
4. Pack a Mini “Sensory Support Kit”
Having a few sensory tools on hand can make a big difference during trick-or-treating.
Pack items like:
Noise-reducing headphones
Fidget toy or stress ball
Crunchy or chewy snacks (for oral input)
Small flashlight for comfort in the dark
Weighted lap pad or beanbag for the car or stroller
These tools give your child control and comfort if they need a sensory break.
5. Plan for a Calm “After Party”
Once the candy rush and excitement fade, kids often experience a sensory crash. Create a calming routine to help their nervous system reset.
Try:
Dimming the lights
Taking a warm bath or gentle lotion massage
Sorting candy as a quiet, fine-motor activity
Following the usual bedtime routine
These steps help kids transition smoothly from “high energy” to “rest and regulate.”
Final Thoughts
Every child experiences Halloween differently — and that’s okay! With a little planning and a few OT strategies, your child can participate in the fun in a way that feels safe and enjoyable for them.
At Creating Connections OT, we’re here to help your child thrive—emotionally, physically, and socially. If this post resonated with you and you're wondering what the next step looks like, our New Client Page has everything you need. From what to expect in your first session to how we support your child’s unique goals, it’s all just a click away.