Halloween Hi-Jinks: More scary than fun?

Halloween Fun: What Happens When It’s Not Fun for Everyone?

For some children, Halloween can feel more overwhelming than exciting. The costumes, the decorations, and the jump scares can be a bit much for little ones. If you’ve got a child who finds Halloween more stressful than fun, you’re definitely not alone.

Our latest resource, Halloween Hi-jinks, shares practical tips on how to help kids navigate the spooky season without the meltdowns. Every child should be able to enjoy the holiday in their own way, even if that means skipping the haunted houses altogether!

Why Halloween Can Be a Lot for Little Ones

Halloween is supposed to be a time for fun, filled with costumes, candy, and a bit of playful fright. But for some young kids, it can be more of a scary movie than a celebration. They’re still figuring out what’s real and what’s make-believe, which can lead to anxiety and, well… a few meltdowns.

Here are some easy ways to help kids feel more comfortable during Halloween:

You’re Their Biggest Influence

Right now, you’re the person your child looks up to most. If they see you having fun with the spooky stuff, laughing at costumes or making light of scary decorations, they’ll start to pick up on the fact that these things can be fun and not so scary after all.

Make It Playful

Using humor and play can turn a spooky moment into something silly. Halloween parties and big gatherings can get overwhelming, so try teaming up with your child to "scare" others. They’ll love thinking they’re the one giving grown-ups a fright! Plan ahead with other adults to respond in a playful way, giving your child a sense of control while keeping the mood light and fun.

Watch the Sugar Overload

We all know how much sugar kids can consume on Halloween, and it often leads to a case of the “sugar jitters.” Add that to the excitement of costumes, loud noises, and general chaos, and it’s a recipe for a meltdown. Be prepared for their energy levels to spike, then crash. To help them calm down, focus on engaging their parasympathetic nervous system (AKA the “rest and digest” mode).

Time to Chill: Rest and Digest

When things get a little too hectic, try turning down the noise and dimming the lights. Put on something familiar, like a favorite TV show or audiobook, and bring out any favorite sensory toys to help them wind down.

It’s OK to Opt-Out

Halloween isn’t for everyone, and that’s completely fine! If your child is feeling overwhelmed or anxious, there’s no rule that says they have to participate. Respect their limits, sometimes the best way to handle Halloween is to just take a pass.