10/16/2025
As we approach the Halloween season, remember to be aware of the challenges that some children face –scary decorations, loud noises, masks, scary movies and social media that can be frightful. We all want to have fun, but some children and adults have faced trauma that can be triggered by some common Halloween events and decorations. These include scary decorations, loud noises, wearing of masks, costumes that evoke past fearful events. To reduce these reactions, it is important to set boundaries for you and/or your children, avoid locations or events that you know, or suspect are frightful, focus on how your children are reacting at school and with friends.
Many schools and churches have adapted events to “fall festivals” and trunk or treat activities that are able to be more sensitive to the needs of all participants. Focus on fun activities that are not scary such as bobbing for apples, playing games outside, carving pumpkins with smiling faces, making cookies and cakes with fun decorations.
Being aware of the impact of trauma during the Halloween season, is an important role for all adults who deal with children.
