While Halloween may serve as a time to celebrate with your family, it can present unique challenges for Hoosiers on the autism spectrum. But, there are ways to make it more accessible for all.

According to the Mayo Clinic, autism spectrum disorder “impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others.” In other words, some people on the spectrum can become easily overwhelmed in social situations, and especially in crowded or noisy environments.

Thankfully, Speech Language Pathologist Morgan Allen says there are ways to help make “spooky season” easier to navigate.

Allen believes that “being open with your expectations” is essential.

By this, she means that the ideal experiences for children on the spectrum may not be the same as those for neurotypical kids. So, taking the holiday one step at a time and remaining flexible are key.

Other steps you can take include making sure kids are comfortable in their costumes, preparing them for the unexpected elements of Halloween (like unusual sights or sounds), and planning a route in advance.

Even if you do not have kids on the spectrum, the pathologist says you can still help make the holiday enjoyable for all. For example, she encourages you to treat all kids equally, even if they struggle to communicate “Trick or Treat” as you might expect.

And, if a child starts to become visibly overwhelmed at your home, she urges you to give them space, create a quieter environment, and check in on their parents and offer them a few moments to regroup.

Allen concludes, “The world is not kind, so let’s make it our mission…to just be as kind as we possibly can to whoever we open our doors to.”