Inclusion Makes Spooky Season Sweeter🎃

Inclusion means creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported. It’s about removing barriers and celebrating differences so all kids can participate in meaningful ways.

When kids with differences (disabilities, sensory needs, etc) are included, everyone benefits (empathy, friendships, richer experiences).

“Inclusion isn’t about making them fit, it’s about making the space fit them.”

🗣 Use simple language: Explain that everyone has different strengths and challenges.  

“Some children move around in a wheelchair, some hear differently, some need quieter games.”

💬 Encourage curiosity: It’s okay for kids to ask questions respectfully.

“How might this activity feel if the lights are super bright?”; “What could we change so everyone can join?”

👀 Model kindness: Show inclusion through your actions—invite, adapt, and celebrate differences.

“Let’s ask Alex what part of the game they like—maybe we’ll add a version for them too.”

🤝 Focus on belonging: Remind kids that everyone deserves to have fun and be part of the group.

Sensory & environment

• Avoid or give the option to skip strobe lights, fog machines or loud scary noises (can be overwhelming for kids with sensory sensitivities). The Nora Project+1
  
  

• Provide a quiet or calm zone where kids can take a break if they get overstimulated. Twinkl
  
  

• Use visual schedules or social stories ahead of time to prepare kids for what to expect. Twinkl+1
  
  

Accessibility & mobility

• Make sure treat stations are on level ground, easy to access, not just up stairs. rickhansen.com+1
  
  

• Provide non‐food treats (stickers, small toys) for kids with dietary restrictions or who can’t eat candy. hollandbloorview.ca
  
  

Games & activities

• Adapt crafts: use felt or foam rather than super sticky/glittery adhesives. Twinkl
  
  

• Adapt games: e.g., instead of high-mobility “apple bobbing”, do bean bag toss or sensory-friendly treasure hunt. Twinkl
  
  

• Use communication supports: picture cards, yes/no cards, iPad or AAC devices for kids who don’t speak. The Nora Project+1
  
  

Mindset & social inclusion

• Normalize asking: “How would you like to play?”
  
  

• Encourage inclusive invitations: “We’re doing a Halloween craft and you’re welcome to join however you like it.”
  
  

• Recognize difference but emphasize belonging: We may each do things a little differently, and that’s okay.

hollandbloorview.ca: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital — “How to make Halloween safe and inclusive for everyone” (includes tips for trick-or-treaters with disabilities, sensory/food/allergy concerns, route planning) 

The Nora Project: “Tips for Creating an Accessible Halloween for All” (simple printable ideas, e.g., non-food treats, clear pathways)

rickhansen.com: Rick Hansen Foundation  “4 Tips to make sure your Halloween is inclusive” (curb-side treat stations, good lighting, “Treat Accessibly” sign)

Undivided: “Your guide to making this Halloween inclusive, safe AND accessible!” (sensory-friendly, flexible scheduling, etc)

The Chicago Lighthouse: “Tips for Making an Accessible and Inclusive Halloween Celebration” (specific for visually impaired, tactile games etc)