Halloween With Heart: A Sensory-Friendly Guide for Families
Halloween is one of those holidays that brings a mix of excitement and unpredictability. Costumes, candy, flashing lights, music, new textures, and unfamiliar routines can make the day magical for some — and completely overwhelming for others.
As clinicians, we’ve seen firsthand how overstimulation can turn an otherwise fun night into a stressful experience. But we’ve also seen how just a few small adjustments can completely transform the evening; helping children, teens, and families enjoy the celebration in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and joyful.
Here are some of our favorite ways to make Halloween more sensory-friendly, flexible, and inclusive for everyone.
Comfort over costumes:
Costumes are one of the biggest sensory hurdles during Halloween. They can be itchy, tight, or full of textures that don’t feel great. The key is comfort first, creativity second.
Start with familiar clothing. Build a costume around something your child already enjoys wearing, a favorite hoodie, soft leggings, or a tagless tee.
DIY it. A soft gray sweatsuit and a few felt ears can easily become a cat or mouse. A green hoodie turns into a dinosaur with fabric spikes.
Thrift stores are your friend. Gently used costumes tend to be “broken in,” softer, and more breathable.
Try it ahead of time. Let your child wear the costume for short periods before Halloween night to make sure it’s comfortable and tolerated.
If dressing up causes distress, that’s okay! You can celebrate in cozy clothes or pajamas and still have a great time.
Prepare for the Sights and Sounds
Halloween nights can be filled with sensory input: ringing doorbells, excited voices, crowds, and bright lights. Some children love the energy, while others need extra support to handle it.
Try these strategies to make the night easier:
Bring noise-reducing headphones or ear defenders to help soften loud sounds.
Use a wagon or stroller so your child can rest or take a break when needed.
Pack comfort items, fidgets, or snacks.
Create a visual schedule that shows what to expect, like getting dressed, visiting a few houses, collecting candy, and returning home.
Do a practice run earlier in the week so your child knows what trick-or-treating will look like.
Watch for signs of sensory overload such as covering ears, slowing down, or refusing to walk. These are signals that a break may help.
Sometimes a short and calm night is much more enjoyable than pushing for the full route.
Build in Breaks and Backup Plans
Halloween doesn’t need to be a marathon
Choose a trick-or-treat route that loops back home early.
Take frequent breaks to snack, rest, or regroup.
Keep a blanket or light jacket in the wagon for comfort.
End early if needed and finish the night with a cozy movie or quiet activity.
Home-Based Ways to Celebrate
If trick-or-treating isn’t the right fit, try one of these simple, sensory-friendly ways to celebrate:
Host a Halloween pajama night with a movie and themed snacks.
Organize a candy hunt in the house or backyard using glow sticks.
Paint pumpkins or decorate them with stickers instead of carving.
Set out a candy bowl with a note that says, “Please no knocking or doorbells.”
Advocate Through Awareness
Small acts of inclusion go a long way!
Share a neighborhood note or sign letting others know your home supports sensory-friendly trick-or-treating.
Encourage friends and local businesses to offer calm, welcoming spaces.
Model understanding and celebrate every version of participation — even if it looks a little different.
A Kind(er) Kind of Halloween
Halloween doesn’t have to mean overstimulation or chaos. It can be about connection, comfort, and joy. Every child deserves to celebrate in a way that feels safe, supported, and fun.
Whether your family is trick-or-treating, visiting a sensory-friendly event, or spending the night in with caramel apples and movies, the best Halloween is the one that feels right for you.
From all of us at NeuroKind Collective, we wish you a happy, heart-filled, and inclusive Halloween.
Sensory-Friendly Events in Milwaukee and Beyond
If traditional trick-or-treating feels overwhelming, there are several inclusive and family-friendly Halloween events in the Milwaukee area.
Boo at the Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo | Oct. 17–19 and 24–26, 2025
Trick-or-treat stations, pumpkin displays, and plenty of open space to move around. Early hours tend to be quieter.
Sensory-Friendly Trunk or Treat
5369 N 118th Ct, Milwaukee | Oct. 20, 2025
A quieter, low-stimulation event featuring dimmer lighting, calm music, and volunteers trained to support sensory needs.
Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee
Downtown Milwaukee | Oct. 25, 2025
A free, daytime event with music, crafts, and pumpkin carving. Great for families who prefer daylight celebrations.
Halloween Glen
Riverside Park | Oct. 18–19, 2025
A nature-based trail experience from Milwaukee Recreation that features friendly characters and storytelling instead of scares.
Milwaukee Public Museum: Halloween Hauntings
Downtown Milwaukee | Oct. 24–25, 2025
Trick-or-treating indoors with accessible exhibits and a comfortable, controlled environment.
If you’re outside the city, check out:
Elegant Farmer’s Autumn Harvest Festival (Mukwonago) for daytime hayrides and pumpkin picking.
Green Meadows Farm (East Troy) for calm, interactive farm fun
Little Amerricka Halloween Weekends (Marshall) for smaller crowds and manageable rides.
