Sensory-Friendly Halloween Activities: Fun Without the Frights

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but for children with sensory sensitivities, the holiday can be more overwhelming than enjoyable. The loud noises, flashing lights, itchy costumes, and unfamiliar textures can trigger anxiety or discomfort. Fortunately, with a little creativity, you can create sensory-friendly Halloween activities that allow kids to have fun in a way that feels safe and comfortable for them.

Here are some ideas for a sensory-friendly Halloween experience:

Sensory-Friendly Pumpkin Decorating

Instead of carving pumpkins, which can be messy and involve sharp tools, opt for a sensory-friendly decorating session. Provide kids with stickers, paint, markers, and foam shapes to decorate their pumpkins. This keeps the fun of creating Halloween designs while avoiding sensory overload from messy textures or smells.

Tip:  If your child likes the idea of messy play, but is apprehensive with getting his/her hands dirty.  Be sure to prepare a bowl of soapy water or a wet washcloth to easily wipe hands off.  You can also have your child wear gloves.Tip: Use soft, squishy pumpkins for extra tactile fun!

Costume Parade at Home

Rather than attending large, noisy parties or parades, organize a small costume parade at home with family members or close friends. Let children choose costumes made of soft, comfortable fabrics that won’t irritate their skin. Avoid masks or tight accessories if they are uncomfortable for your child.

Tip: If your child doesn’t like traditional costumes, let them dress up as their favorite character in everyday clothes. The key is comfort, not complexity.

Trick-or-Treat Scavenger Hunt

Traditional trick-or-treating can be overwhelming due to crowds and noise. Instead, create a scavenger hunt inside your home or in your backyard. Hide candy or small toys in different spots and let kids explore at their own pace. This gives them the excitement of Halloween without the sensory overload of busy streets.

Tip: Use soft lighting or glow sticks to create a calming atmosphere for the scavenger hunt.

Sensory Exploration Stations

Set up different stations where children can engage with Halloween-themed sensory activities. Examples include:

• Squishy slime made with safe, non-toxic ingredients.
• Feely bags filled with textured objects like cotton balls, rubber spiders, or dry pasta.
• Scented play dough infused with fall scents like cinnamon or pumpkin spice.

These activities allow children to explore different textures, smells, and sensations in a controlled, non-threatening way.

Storytime with Halloween Books

Create a cozy corner with soft blankets and low lighting for a Halloween storytime. Choose books with fun, not-too-scary themes. You can even make storytime interactive by incorporating soft plush toys or sensory fidget items related to the story.

Tip: Opt for books that focus on friendly monsters or cute ghosts to keep things light hearted.

Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party

Turn on some calming music and have a glow-in-the-dark dance party! Use glow sticks, soft lighting, or gentle flashing lights to create a sensory-friendly atmosphere. Keep the volume low and let your child lead the way, dancing in a way that feels comfortable for them.

Tip: If your child prefers not to dance, let them play with the glow sticks and explore the visual effects.

DIY Halloween Sensory Bins

Create a sensory bin filled with Halloween-themed items like:

• Orange and black pom-poms
• Mini plastic pumpkins
• Soft, stretchy spider webs
• Dry corn kernels for a crunchy texture

Let children dig, scoop, and explore the different textures. Sensory bins are a great way to help kids calm down while engaging their senses.

Halloween doesn’t have to be stressful for kids with sensory sensitivities. By making a few adjustments and focusing on comfort, you can create a holiday experience that’s full of joy and free of unnecessary stress. The key is to follow your child’s lead, respect their boundaries, and ensure that the activities are enjoyable at their pace.

With these sensory-friendly ideas, Halloween can be a time of magical fun—without the frights! And if you’re looking for a support for your child in Mountain View or surrounding areas, complete our intake form here and we will be in touch!