All-o-ween is back again

Photo submitted.

By Cecilia Nasmith

Some children find Halloween scarier than others – and for those kids, Five Counties Children's Centre is bringing back All-o-ween for a third straight year.

Designed as an accessible, inclusive and sensory-friendly experience for Five Counties kids, their siblings and families, it runs from 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 28 at their Cobourg location (Unit 2, 800 Division St.).

Kids currently enrolled at Five Counties (or who previously were enrolled or are on the current wait list) are invited to show off their costumes, dress in orange and black, or just come as they are. They can go around the site to different office doors and treatment spaces that have been specially decorated for Halloween, where staff, volunteers and community partners will hand out treats and toys. Families can also enjoy crafts, refreshments and other family-friendly activities.

And to make sure the space doesn't get too busy (and possibly overwhelming), participants will be assigned arrival times when they register. You can book your spot by visiting www.fivecounties.on.ca/alloween or calling 1-888-779-9916 ext. 215.

Last year, more than 200 children and youth of all abilities took part in All-o-ween events held across Five Counties' three main sites. As well as the Cobourg location, All-o-ween is returning this year to 872 Dutton Rd., Peterborough, on Oct. 27 and to 9 Russell St. E., Lindsay, on Oct. 29.

For organizer Hayley Hodges, the Five Counties Client and Family Experience lead, “the best part of All-o-ween is seeing the absolute joy on the faces of kids and families, because they got to enjoy a relaxed and inclusive trick-or-treating experience.

“Many families say All-o-ween is a very meaningful event for them, since they might not otherwise be able to go out trick-or-treating with their child over Halloween,” she said in the announcement.

As someone who uses a wheelchair, Hodges recalls a childhood of challenging Halloween outings.

“Most homes had steps, so I couldn't go up to the door to trick-or-treat. I had to rely on my siblings to collect candy for me when they went to doors. From the bottom of the driveway, I would sit in my wheelchair, wave and wait,” she shared.

“Halloween is one of those days or festivities that every child should be able to experience and enjoy. And by organizing All-o-ween, we can ensure everyone participates and no one gets left behind.”

Now that she goes out trick-or-treating with her own children, she is pleased to see more people putting some thought into putting the “all” in Halloween – setting up candy stations in the garage or the end of the driveway, for example.

Five Counties is looking beyond All-o-ween to share tips for everyone who wants to observe the season in an inclusive barrier-free way.

For homes with stairs, consider setting up an accessible treat station on the front lawn, driveway, garage or even your vehicle's trunk.

Clear the way for trick-or-treaters, removing potential obstacles on the way to the treat station and ensuring it's well lit.

Decorate with care. Scary and spooky decorations are appealing, but they do frighten some trick-or-treaters. Bright flashing lights and loud or frightening noises can cause problems for children with sensory-processing issues, autism or epilepsy.

Communication counts. Some people may say “trick or treat” differently, some may use sign language or assistive technology. Be respectful, whatever the circumstances. Sometimes all you need is a smile and wave.

Use some show-and-tell for children with visual or hearing problems – describe or display the treat before placing it in the bag so they are aware of what they are receiving.

If you want to make an even stronger statement, there are signs you can put up on your lawn indicating you are an accessible/inclusive trick-or-treating sign – available at Treat Accessibility locations, or make your own.