Halloween is an exciting time for children to dress up as their favorite character or something they enjoy! However, for some children, Halloween can be a scary time full of new experiences (i.e., disrupted routines, unknown expectations, and unexpected sounds). A social story is one way to help a child understand what to expect and feel more prepared.
Example Trick-or-Treating Social Story:
Halloween is a special day to dress up in a costume and go trick-or-treating.
We will walk to houses and wait for our turn.
When the door opens, I can say, “Trick or treat!”
Someone may give me a treat. I can say, “Thank you!”
I will stay close to my grown up and walk safely to the next house.
Some costumes, decorations, or sounds may surprise me. If I don’t like them, I can tell my grown up.
When we are finished trick-or-treating, we will go home.
I will have a Happy Halloween!
Tips for Using the Social Story:
To implement the social story, try to read it a few days leading up to Halloween for the routine to feel familiar. You can personalize the story and add: your child’s name, a picture of their costume, photos of the neighborhood, and photo of the adult they will be with. Some children may also benefit from practicing at home and knocking on a door and saying, “trick or treat,” and receiving a treat.
Have fun and safe Halloween!
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