Trick-or-Treating for Children of ALL Abilities

by | Oct 17, 2019 | Local Resources

Halloween candy spread across the bottom of a wooden table and a plastic pumpkin container on the left

We’re creeping closer and closer to Halloween night, and the inevitable trick-or-treating that comes with this spooky holiday. To prepare for a night of fun, the Joseph Maley Foundation has compiled a list of trick-or-treat events that are for children of ALL abilities. Plus, some tricks and tips YOU can use to make your neighborhood’s annual trick-or-treat more inclusive!

JMF Spooky Sports Open Gym

Date: Saturday, Oct. 26

Time: 2 PM – 4 PM

Place: 6590 S. Indianapolis Rd., Whitestown, IN

 

Carmel Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat Walk (Pre-Registration Required)

Date: Saturday, Oct. 19

Time: 1 PM – 3 PM

Place: Carmel’s Central Park

  • $5 per child
  • Must register before arriving 

 

Dynamic Music Services Halloween Trunk or Treat

Date: Saturday, Oct. 26

Time: 3 PM – 6 PM

Place: 7502 Madison Ave., Indianapolis, IN

  • Sensory Friendly
  • Open to children of ALL ages and abilities

 

Indiana School for the Deaf Trunk or Treat

Date: Wednesday, Oct. 30

Time: 4 PM – 6 PM

Place: 1200 E. 42nd St., Indianapolis, IN

  • For all deaf or hard-of-hearing children, not just those enrolled at ISD

 

Tips and Tricks for making trick-or-treat more inclusive and welcoming to children and families of ALL abilities in your neighborhood:

  • Be aware of sensory concerns
    • i.e. loud noises and decorations, smoke machines, strobe lights, etc.
  • Be mindful of food allergies
    • 1 and 13 children have a food allergy
    • Consider participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project (video here) and offer non-food treats as well as the typical candy choices.
    • Visit this website to learn more.
  • Remove obstacles for those with disabilities
    • Make sure the area you are handing treats out in is accessible to children of ALL abilities.
    • Be ready to describe what treats you are handing out for children who are low-vision or blind.
    • Some children who are non-speaking may not be able to say the traditional “trick-or-treat”. Do not push for verbal responses.

You can find more information about hosting and promoting an inclusive trick-or-treat experience here.