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Enjoying Halloween with Speech and Language Disorders

Halloween, with its delightful mix of costumes and candy, is a highly anticipated celebration for children everywhere. However, for those with speech and language disorders, this occasion can present unique challenges. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is shedding light on how families can help their little ones engage in this time-honored tradition while ensuring it's enjoyable and accessible.

Understanding the Challenges

For many children, trick-or-treating involves a significant amount of verbal interaction. They need to shout out "trick or treat" repeatedly, respond to questions about their costumes, and navigate conversations with unfamiliar adults. These pressures are often daunting for children who struggle with verbal communication. ASHA's 2025 President, Bernadette Mayfield-Clarke, PhD, CCC-SLP, emphasizes the need for patience and understanding from everyone participating in the holiday festivities.

Helpful Tips for Families

To turn this Halloween into a joyful experience, ASHA offers a series of actionable strategies for parents and caregivers:

1. Practice Key Phrases: In the days leading up to Halloween, families should rehearse essential phrases like "trick or treat" and "thank you." Also, practice responses to common questions such as "What are you dressed up as?" This rehearsal can boost confidence and reduce anxiety on the big night.

2. Use Visual Supports: A small card or sign that includes the phrases “trick or treat” and “thank you” can be beneficial. This allows non-verbal children to participate in the tradition visibly and effectively. Some families opt to include a brief note that explains their child’s communication style to help others understand how to respond supportively.

3. Prepare AAC Devices: Children who rely on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices should have their devices ready to go. Parents can model messages that the child might use during trick-or-treating, ensuring they're familiar and comfortable using them. Many devices have Halloween-related vocabulary available, which can add to the fun.

4. Trick-or-Treat Early: To create a calmer environment, families might want to head out before it gets dark. Early outings often mean fewer children on the streets, allowing for less pressure to rush through interactions. This time provides a more relaxed setting, making it easier for children to express themselves.

5. Inform Neighbors: Before Halloween, inform your neighbors about your child's communication needs, preparing them for a positive interaction. Focusing on familiar houses can also lessen anxiety as kids feel supported.

6. Discuss the Plan: Familiarize your child with the trick-or-treating route, the people they'll be with, and the general flow of the evening. Knowledge about the process can reduce anxiety. Discuss important safety reminders, such as staying close to adults and not crossing streets unsupervised.

7. Establish a Signal for Assistance: If your child may become overwhelmed by costumes, loud noises, or other Halloween elements, agree on a signal that indicates they want to leave. This could be a simple hand gesture or a word known only to them that will communicate their need for a break.

8. Encourage Peer Support: Encourage siblings and friends to watch for your child's needs and give them extra patience. It’s easy for other children to get caught up in the excitement, so reminders can help.

9. Be Flexible: Recognize that some children may need to end the night earlier than others. Having a backup plan for siblings might be necessary to accommodate your child’s needs, allowing the evening to remain enjoyable for everyone involved.

Promoting a Supportive Community

Dr. Mayfield-Clarke emphasizes the importance of community support during Halloween. She encourages everyone to be understanding. Not every child will follow the traditional script of saying “trick or treat” or “thank you,” and that should be okay. Giving kids the opportunity to enjoy this special night, regardless of how they communicate, is paramount.

For more information about providing support to children experiencing speech and language disorders, visit ASHA's website.

Halloween should be a fun and inclusive event for every child, and with the right preparation and understanding from the community, it can turn into a joyful night filled with laughter and treats for all.