The kiddo grabbing more than one piece of candy may struggle with fine motor skills or the kid who takes forever to choose a piece of candy might have motor planning issues. A kiddo who doesn't say "trick or treat" or "thank you" upon leaving may be non-verbal. Or the kiddo who looks disappointed when seeing the bowl of goodies may have allergies and can't take anything from those options. And the little one not wearing a costume may have sensory issues or Sensory Processing Disorder and can't stand the feel of a costume.
Sometimes kids with special needs don't even know what is going on or why they are supposed to be dressing up or going door to door. Children with autism may get easily overwhelmed with the costumes, people everywhere, noises, sugar, and the excitement of the other kiddos around them. Keep in mind it takes a lot of planning, preparation, flexibility, and courage for special needs families to navigate things like Halloween.
Last year Charlie was excited about being a police officer. It was the first year he really took interest in actually wanting to dress up. So you better believe we did everything we could to find him a police costume. He kept the costume on for about 10 minutes before deciding he couldn't stand it any longer, and took it off. Luckily we were trick or treating in doors when that happened and he could easily walk around without freezing. This year Charlie is already wavering on his decision to dress up. At first he said he would be a police officer again, but ever since then (that was several weeks ago) he has said he isn't dressing up. I guess we'll see what happens when everyone is getting ready to head out trick or treating.
Just remember to be flexible this Halloween and above else, be kind.
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