How to Find the Perfect Halloween Costume for Kids With Disabilities
For parents of children with disabilities, autism spectrum disorders or sensory problems, Halloween can be fraught with not only the usual obstacles in the form of loud noises, special effects and unusual lighting, but also the very real challenge of finding a functional, comfortable and comfortable costume. fun. But there are more possibilities and inspiration than ever before, and we’ve rounded up some of our favorites.
Magic wheelchair
Magic Wheelchair is a non-profit organization that, in their own words, “creates epic costumes for children in wheelchairs – free for families.” The organization is run by Ryan Weimer and his wife, who have five children, three of whom suffer from muscular dystrophy. When one son wanted to become a Halloween pirate, Ryan decided to turn his child’s wheelchair into a ship . The result was so successful that it inspired the launch of the Magic Wheelchair.
It’s too late to apply for your very own Magic Wheelchair costume this year (bookmark the details for next year!) , But you can always check out their Instagram account for loads of inspiration, from Batmobiles to My Little Pony chariots and giant dinosaurs. …
One place for special needs
One Place for Special Needs lists over 100 sensory costume ideas on Pinterest, including one particularly amazing ” Shrug Free ” costume. Suits inspire ensembles that you can make from your child’s current favorite clothing, such as sweatpants, sweatshirts, or pajamas, useful for kids who find it difficult to wear new, scratchy or constricting materials.
Cotton Tail Clothes
Cotton Tail Clothing has a list of 25 easy-to-follow DIY costume ideas, along with helpful tips on how to successfully coax kids with autism.
My favorite costume idea she shared is the zoo keeper costume, which involves wearing a short cargo and a regular T-shirt with a name tag and one or two toys. (If it’s cold outside, move the tag from shirt to jacket.) Another good option, especially for kids who wear noise canceling headphones, is the DJ: kid can dress up in their casual clothes, put on their headphones and they’re done … Maybe play music from your phone when you go with it for added effect.
Hyde and Eek boutique
If you’re not a fan of DIY, Target’s Halloween costume lineup this year includes several adaptive costumes for kids in wheelchairs, as well as tagless costumes with flat seams, hidden abdominal openings and detachable components for kids with sensory disabilities. processing etc. conditions. Options include a princess carriage , pirate ship , unicorns, and sharks .
However, if the treat is more stressful than fun, Peggy’s mom Gilpatrick writes for Autism Speaks to think about ditching costumes entirely and starting her own Halloween tradition:
There is also entertainment. Maybe he can hand out treats, make him a candy sorter, or draw pumpkins. If all the doorbells are too hassle, turn off the porch light, build a couch, and watch Goosebumps or Charlie Brown.
At least the sweets themselves are a classic tradition.