Image courtesy Tumblr<\/a><\/p>\n

Halloween is one of those seasons that creates an immense amount of joy for many children. Dressing in costumes, playing fun games, and going out to get candy are just some of the activities involved in the spooky holiday. In celebrating and having a great time we have to take into account, safety, especially when it comes to children with different abilities like autism.<\/p>\n

There are so many great sites with tips on how to keep your child with autism safe for Halloween activities. Below the OurStarsInc Team has compiled a list of some of the best tips around.<\/p>\n

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Practice makes perfect<\/strong>
\nLet your child practice wearing their costume at home. This gives you time to make any last minute modifications and time for your child to get used to it. (The Autism Blog<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Visuals to the rescue<\/strong>
\nCreate a visual story of what Halloween may be like for your child, with some pictures or drawings. This will help your child prepare for the day\u2019s activities. (Autism Speaks<\/a>)<\/p>\n

To costume or not to costume<\/strong>
\nIf you plan to go trick-or-treating, take your child to the store and look at costumes and decorations together before Halloween. Picking out a cool costume and dressing up can be a lot of fun and this experience will help prepare your child for the big day. If your child doesn\u2019t like the feel of the costumes, find a festive or funny Halloween shirt.<\/em>
\nIf you\u2019re staying home and handing out candy, let your child help<\/em>. (Early Autism Project<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Safety in numbers<\/strong>
\nGo trick-or-treating with your child, and maybe with a group. Pair your child up with a neurotypical buddy that can help your child remember the trick-or-treating rules, and be another set of eyes on your child amidst the flurry of masquerading candy goers. If you have other children, make sure you have a plan in case your child with autism wants to go home before your other children are done. (Pathfinders for Autism<\/a>)<\/p>\n

The swag aka the yummy treats<\/strong>
\nMake a plan for how you will handle candy consumption. A gluten or dairy intolerance may be an issue with Halloween treats, as are food dyes and extra sugar. Decide the candy-eating rules in advance and write them down. (Spirit of Autism<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Teach safety & manners<\/strong>
\nTrick or Treat time is a wonderful opportunity to teach Halloween etiquette. Teach kids to be polite as they ring the doorbell and say \u201cTrick or Treat\u201d. Then advise them it\u2019s proper to take only one piece of candy unless told otherwise. And always tell the person \u201cthank you\u201d before leaving. Also tell the kids not to eat the candy until they get home and parents can check it. Finally, tell kids not to go into someone\u2019s home who is a stranger if invited. (Parenting Special Needs<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Have fun<\/strong>
\nAfter reading and following the above guide tips, make sure you remember to have fun! Halloween only comes around once a year!<\/p>\n