By Cecilia Nasmith
Five Counties Children's Centre has issued a press release with some tricks to make Halloween a treat for children of all age and abilities.
This echoes the message of Treat Accessibility, a grassroots movement formed in 2017 to promote a happy Halloween for “everyBODY” with a more inclusive approach. According to Treat Accessibility, more than 400,000 Canadian children identify as having one or more disabilities that might prevent them from enjoying Halloween rounds with siblings and friends.
“Ask any child, and he or she will tell you Halloween ranks right up there as one of the best days of the year,” Five Counties Chief Executive Officer Scott Pepin said in the press release.
“In our everyday work at Five Counties, we support children and youth with physical, developmental and communications needs with the aim of enriching their independence and quality of life every day.
“Halloween is one of those days or festivities that children of every ability should have the chance to experience and enjoy. We're calling on our communities to help make that happen,” Pepin said.
“A few simple tweaks to your Halloween plans can literally open doors to more trick-or-treaters.”
Set up a trick-or-treat station that is accessible and barrier-free for every child to enjoy. Home owners with stairs to the front door might consider setting up an accessible treat station on the front lawn, driveway, garage or – if all else fails – perhaps the trunk of your vehicle.
Clear the path for trick-or-treaters. Remove potential obstacles and ensure a clear, wide-open, well-lit path to your treat station. Consider parking your car on the street or in the garage to allow even more space.
Decorate with care. While scary and spooky decoration are appealing, they may be frightening for some trick-or-treaters. Bright, flashing lights and loud or frightening noises can present problems for children with sensory-processing issues, autism or epilepsy. Be thoughtful and tactful in how you decorate so more children can take part in trick-or-treating.
Communication counts. Some children may say, “trick or treat” differently. Some may use sign language, assistive technology, slow speech or even non-verbal cues. Be respectful, whatever the circumstances. A smile and wave can say so much.
Seeing blue? That's okay. Blue pumpkins have been informally adopted by some families as a way to indicate children have unique ways of behaving and communicating. If you see a trick-or-treater carrying a blue pumpkin, be understanding and adjust your interactions as necessary.
Use some show-and-tell to hand out treats. If you encounter children with visual or hearing problems, describe or hold up the treat before placing it in the bag so they are aware of what they are receiving.
A sign of the times. If you want to make an even stronger statement, put up a sign on your front lawn identifying your home as an accessible/inclusive trick-or-treat stop.
