How To Create An Inclusive Halloween For Neurodivergent Children

In this blog, you will learn:

• Why Halloween can be difficult for neurodivergent pupils.
• 9 strategies for Teachers to create an inclusive Halloween for neurodivergent children.
• Where the latest SEND Teacher jobs are and how to apply for them. 
  
  

For many children, Halloween is a highlight of the school year. Dressing up, carving pumpkins, and enjoying themed activities brings a buzz of excitement. However, for neurodivergent pupils, Halloween can present unique challenges.

Costumes might feel uncomfortable, decorations may be overwhelming and the sudden changes to the school day can lead to anxiety. For SEND Teachers and SEND Teaching Assistants, the key is to strike a balance by keeping the joy of Halloween alive while ensuring that every child, regardless of their needs, feels safe, supported and included. 

With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create an environment that allows all children to take part in the fun. In our latest blog, we’re exploring how to create an inclusive Halloween for neurodivergent children. 

Why can Halloween be overwhelming for neurodivergent children?

Halloween is designed to surprise, but surprises can be unsettling for children who thrive on predictability. Flashing lights, spooky sounds and crowded events may trigger sensory overload. 

Recent studies by NHS England show that between 69% and 95% of autistic people experience sensory processing differences, meaning Halloween can feel overwhelming for neurodivergent children. This statistic also highlights the importance of creating inclusive celebrations.

Routine changes can also cause stress. A normal school day may suddenly include fancy dress or new classroom layouts. Recent guidance from the National Autistic Society highlights that many neurodivergent children depend on routines for security. Disruptions to these routines can cause distress or withdrawal.

Understanding these challenges does not mean cancelling the fun, it means making adjustments so that Halloween can be a positive experience for every child.

How can Teachers create an inclusive Halloween for neurodivergent children?

9 strategies for Teachers to create an inclusive Halloween for neurodivergent children, include:

• Introduce Halloween gradually.
• Prioritise comfort in costumes.
• Offer hands-on alternatives.
• Plan predictable activities.
• Adjust the sensory environment.
• Use storytelling to prepare children.
• Celebrate in small groups.
• Encourage peer understanding.
• Create a ‘take part your way’ policy.

Introduce Halloween gradually

Rather than decorating your classroom all at once, why not consider introducing decorations gradually over several days? By adding one or two items at a time and discussing them with your pupils, you could help neurodivergent children adapt to the changes without feeling overwhelmed. 

This method not only creates a more sensory-friendly environment but also fosters anticipation in a calm and predictable manner.

Prioritise comfort in costumes

Costumes can be a highlight of Halloween, but they are not always sensory-friendly. Masks, face paint, wigs and scratchy fabrics can feel unbearable for some children. To enhance inclusivity, you could allow children to take part in ways that prioritise comfort, such as wearing a Halloween-themed T-shirt or a fun headband. 

You could reassure pupils that participation is not about having the scariest or flashiest costume, but about joining in at their own level. Doing so may help neurodivergent children feel like they belong, without the pressure to conform to traditional costume expectations.

Offer hands on alternatives

Some children may not enjoy noisy games or high-energy activities, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join in the fun. Why not consider setting up hands-on alternatives that feel calmer but still festive?

Consider activities such as pumpkin painting, sensory bins filled with safe autumn textures, such as leaves, or craft tables for mask-making and colouring. These options encourage children to engage in a way that feels less intimidating, while still including them in the celebration. 

Plan predictable activities

Halloween is often full of surprises, but surprises can feel unsettling for pupils who rely on routine. You might find it helpful to plan classroom activities with a strong element of predictability. You could share a visual schedule with your pupils, showing when each Halloween activity will take place. Alternatively, you might find it beneficial to go through the rules of a Halloween game before it begins. 

A short practice run of something new could also help pupils feel secure about what to expect. By creating structure around the day, you give neurodivergent children the confidence to join in without feeling overwhelmed.

Adjust the sensory environment

Halloween celebrations often include bright lights, loud noises and large crowds, which can be overwhelming for children with sensory processing differences. To create a more comfortable experience in the classroom, consider simplifying decorations, lowering background noise and eliminating jump scares. 

Offering noise cancelling headphones, fidget toys or a quiet space could significantly help those who need a break. A sensory-friendly classroom may not resemble a typical Halloween party, but with a gentle approach it can be much more inclusive for neurodivergent children.

Use storytelling to prepare children

Stories can be a gentle way to introduce children to Halloween traditions in a safe and positive manner. You could read picture books about pumpkins and costumes or create a social story that explains exactly what will happen during the school day. 

Using visuals and step-by-step explanations may help children understand and process upcoming activities without anxiety. Storytelling also makes Halloween feel less mysterious and more familiar, which is particularly supportive for neurodivergent children who benefit from predictability.

Celebrate in small groups

Rather than holding one large Halloween event, why not consider splitting children into smaller groups? Rotating between craft stations, story corners, and games could make the day feel calmer and less chaotic. 

Smaller group activities may give pupils the chance to engage more comfortably while still taking part in the fun.

Encourage peer understanding

Halloween could be the perfect opportunity to open up a class discussion about inclusion and empathy. Consider encouraging pupils to think about why some children prefer not to dress up or choose quieter activities and discuss how everyone experiences things differently.

Promoting kindness and respect could help build a culture where differences are celebrated instead of questioned. This not only supports neurodivergent children during Halloween, but also helps all children develop empathy and social awareness.

Create a ‘take part your way’ policy

Encouraging a flexible approach to Halloween activities can be beneficial for neurodivergent children. Some children may love wearing costumes and playing games, while others might enjoy decorating or simply watching from a safe space. 

By highlighting that all types of participation are welcome, you can ease any pressure and ensure that every child feels included in the celebration.

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