10/31/2025
Halloween should be inclusive and accessible for everyone 🧡🖤
Share your spooky stories about inaccessible trick-or-treating that spoiled the fun.
There are a number of fairly easy accommodations we can make in anticipation of Halloween night to make sure our homes and neighborhoods are welcoming to everyone.
Here are some ideas:
1. Stock allergen-friendly and non-food treats
The most common allergens include egg, soy, wheat, dairy, peanut, corn, and some dyes. Stocking allergy-friendly treats can solve this problem. Get creative - food items don’t have to be candy and treats don’t have to
be food.
2. Don't demand a "trick-or-treat" or "thank you"
Don’t think someone is rude if they don’t speak with you. Instead, meet them where they are and offer them the same treats you offer all other visitors. Conversations should not be forced to get those treats.
3. Welcome visitors of all ages
Trick-or-treating is a fu activity for many ages. It is a great way to make you feel a part of the community and socialize. Not only children enjoy the tradition.
4. Do not make assumptions about others' abilities
While it is important to consider the needs and limitations of others, it is not helpful to make assumptions about others’ abilities or treat them differently. Be accepting and treat people with disabilities the same way you would treat anyone else. This includes no baby talk, no invasive questions, touching, or taking about them.
5. Keep treats in an easy-to-reach place
People of all ages live with mobility or vision disabilities. Stairs, elevated terrain, and poorly lit areas can prevent a person with a disability coming to your home. Make sure all the treats are easily accessible to all.
What would you add?
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This information is based on the article, “Keep Trick-or-Treating Accessible for All: A Few Simple Tips for an Inclusive Halloween,” published in USA Today.