In our Floortime Program, October’s theme will be “This is Halloween.” Our Specialists will introduce the Halloween holiday and help prepare clients for activities they may be involved in (trick-or-treating / dress up parties). There will be a variety of arts and craft activities available for clients to express their creativity. Discussions will be promoted to converse about what they may expect, past experiences, or any future plans. Clients will also have the opportunity to dress up during therapy sessions to show off their costumes!
Our Social Skills Training Program is focusing on Halloween – recognizing that it is the first holiday of the Fall season. Although trick-or-treating may be different again this year, that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun! It’s also good to remember that not everyone celebrates the same holidays and it is important to be sensitive to other people’s beliefs.
A few things to keep in mind for a fun and enjoyable Halloween is to be kind when commenting on someone’s costume – a mean comment will make them feel bad. If offered a choice, take one piece of candy from each house when trick-or-treating. Let’s have fun!
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Plan a costume that has a fun mask, practice physical distancing and make sure you wash your hands after you get home!
- Families can leave a bowl of treats at the end of their front sidewalk and sit on their porch to wave at the kids walking the neighborhood. This allows kids to safely walk the neighborhood while maintaining physical distance.
- Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
- Put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Sample Activities for our Parents:
Pumpkins Have Feelings, too!
Show pumpkins with various facial expressions. Have the child identify and then act out how the pumpkins might be feeling and what they might say, depending on how they look.
Halloween Charades
Charades is always a great way to get kids laughing, and it’s an easy option if you’re looking for last minute Halloween games.
Pumpkin Races
Have your children compete in pumpkin races.This requires them to race (through obstacles if desired) while carrying a pumpkin. This activity will help with motor planning and agility as well as provide your child with vestibular and proprioceptive input.
Have a wonderful and safe Halloween!
