Autism-friendly Halloween ideas

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO)-- Halloween is less than a week away and many activities are happening this weekend to celebrate.

It's a fun time for kids and families, but for those on the spectrum, it can be overwhelming.

Kids with autism can struggle with sensory overload, so things like flashing lights, scary sounds, and itchy costumes can be triggering.

At Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center they're reminding everyone of was to make Halloween fun for everyone.

If you're handing out candy on Halloween, it's important to remember that not all kids communicate the same. Some will not be able to say trick-or-treat or thank you and others won't be in costume.

If you know someone is coming to your house that is on the spectrum reach out to the family beforehand. Some kids can be picky eaters, so have options like stickers or small or toys.

Kids with autism will carry the teal Autism Speaks buckets, but that decision is up to the family.

"We don't want our kids to have to disclose their disability to be treated with respect or to have their needs met, but some families do choose to disclose that in order to let people know that their kids might need a little extra support," said Cheyenne Carlsson with Hopebridge in Colorado Springs.

If you're a caregiver, it's important to teach them what Halloween is through books and videos and what that day will look like.

You can also practice trick-or-treating before going out in the neighborhood.

You can look into adaptive costumes, places like Target carry them.

If typical Halloween activities aren't for your child at this time, you can do things like at-home parties, Halloween egg hunts, or have them hand out candy to kids that come to the door.