Halloween can be an overwhelming and frightening time of year for many people. Scary costumes, loud noises, unfamiliar (or unwelcomed) guests knocking at the door can be all too much for some. Whilst we understand this, we know there are still lots of children (and adults) who want to join in with the festivities but need a little extra support managing their needs.

This year, rather than writing about avoiding Halloween, we’re going to show you how you can embrace it!  We’re going to show you 6 spook-tactular products to support your needs but allowing you to enjoy halloween.

#1 Ear Defenders & Ear Plugs

Without a shadow of a doubt, ear defenders and ear plugs are essential sensory resources for this time of year. Designed to reduce uncomfortable noises they can help make going out or staying in that bit easier to manage.

Try wearing ear defenders or ear plugs when going trick or treating. The noise from traffic and squeals from excitable children can all be reduced by wearing ear defenders or plugs, making the whole experience more enjoyable. Available in 6 colours, including lime green our ear defenders are great for matching those spooky costumes.

Staying home carving pumpkins? Pop on a pair of ear defenders or ear plugs and you can enjoy your own activities in comfort. The unpredictable loud knocks on the door or shouting from outside will be greatly reduced, meaning you can have fun without the added anxiety. An added tip - we always pop a note on the front door 'no trick or treaters, but have a happy halloween'. This usually gets rid of most unwanted guests!

 

#2 Sensory Chews

Sensory chews are a simple yet effective sensory resource. Designed as a safe, hygienic alternative to chewing on fingers or clothing. Our Chewbuddy™range of chews strike a perfect balance between strength, comfort and chewability. They're pleasant to chew but strong enough for the needs of the user. Choose from a range of designs and colours to suit your chewing needs. For extra spookyness, try one of our ghoulish ghosts or scary skulls - perfect for celebrating halloween.

Chewing is often increased if you're anxious or frightened, so make sure you stock up on your favourite sensory chews to help this season. Easy to pop in your pocket, on your wrist, clip to a belt or have on a safety lanyard around your neck whilst you're out and about. If you or your child likes to chew clothing, why not try one of our new comfort scarfs or comfort lanyards. Safe, comfortable and hygienic.

#3 All Day Calming Sensory Hug Shirt

Sometimes you want that little extra support, without it being noticable. Cue our sensory hug shirts! Discreet and comfortable the gentle pressure feels like a reassuring hug and they look just like a t-shirt! Plus, they're available in child and adult sizes. Wear inside the house to provide deep pressure support, helping to calm anxious bodies, or wear under costumes for discreet support. They're safe to wear all day long so if you're planning on a full day out, or perhaps going from home to an event, this is the product for you!

 

 

#4 Pop Up Sensory Den

If you're opting to enjoy halloween from the comfort of your own home it doesn't mean you can't have fun! Why not create your own ‘spooky’ cave with a pop up sensory den. Add some lights or a bubble tube and create your own spooky halloween space to enjoy with family and friends. Great for enjoying halloween, but also providing a safe, comforting space if you're feeling overwhelmed or frightened. For something a little different this halloween, check out our UV and glow in the dark range.

 

#5 Sensory Halloween Pack

Let us take the hassle out of Halloween with our NEW Sensory Halloween pack. We've put together a selection of our must-have resources that will help to calm and distract during the busy season. With ear defenders, a ghost shaped Chewbuddy chew and 3 light up accessories you will have every you need on hand to enjoy Halloween activities - whether that's out and about or inside your own home.

#6 Weighted Lap Pads

We wouldn't be without our weighted lap pads, and neither should you. They're ideal for those who need a little support before, during, or after and event and what's even better, they're super portable! Great for using in the car on the way to a halloween party or event to reassure, or just as a handy go-to calming aid that you can grab at home when needed to help self regulate and reduce anxiety. Choose from soft and snuggly fabrics for added comfort and reassurance, or wipe clean fabrics for easy on the spot cleaning.

 

Have a fangtastic halloween

We hope our suggestions have inspired you to get out (or stay in) and enjoy halloween with confidence this year. Whether you're pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, dressing up as you're favourite characters or trick or treating, we hope you have a fangtastic time!

By Andrew Caws
Managing Director of Sensory Direct & Parent of an Autistic Adult
October 2024