Tips for Making Halloween Fun and Inclusive for Children and Adults With Special Needs

October 22, 2026

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“Attending Halloween events may present challenges for people with disabilities. The goal is to make sure the environment and activities are as inclusive an experience as possible so everyone can enjoy the festivities,” said Sean Bielefeldt, Vice President and Executive Director of Programs and Services at Matheny, a specialized hospital and school for children and adults with medically complex disabilities in New Jersey.

At Matheny, Halloween is celebrated all month long with on-campus activities such as pumpkin carving, a scarecrow contest, a zombie prom and supper, and a Halloween parade, which are part of the Life Enrichment Therapies (LET) Program.

“Our LET programs are designed with our residents’ medical issues and students’ special needs in mind so that everyone can participate. Unfortunately, many community Halloween events are not wheelchair accessible, like hayrides, or can pose challenging environments for those with sensory issues, like haunted houses that may not be able to adjust performances for those with special needs,” Bielefeldt said.

Matheny offers these tips to make Halloween more accessible and fun:

Reduce Barriers: Check for step-free access and whether the venue is accessible for those in wheelchairs, walkers or crutches, or who have mobility issues. Trunk-or-Treats are usually more accessible. Homes with stairs, gates or other barriers can set up trick-or-treat tables at the end of the driveway or in the yard, or walk out to the child.
Safety First: Secure loose decorations, lights and extension cords that might hinder access or get caught on a wheelchair.
Be Sensitive: Check for flashing or strobe lights that can trigger seizure disorders, and loud sounds or scary decorations that may trigger anxiety.
Be Aware: A blue treat bucket carried by a child is an informal signal to ask for extra patience if a child doesn’t speak or can’t make eye contact. A teal pumpkin outside a home may mean the house offers non-food treats for those with allergies or restricted diets.
Be Flexible: Not every child will be in costume or will be able to say “trick or treat” or “thank you,” but they all deserve to have fun.

Finding costumes that fit properly can also be a challenge, particularly for those with physical disabilities or who use wheelchairs. Every year, Matheny staff members volunteer their time to help customize and retrofit costumes so patients, residents and students can dress up in style, with safety and comfort in mind.

Here are some costume tips:

Keep fabric and decorations above the wheels and clear of push-rims, brakes, casters and the joystick on power wheelchairs. Trailing capes and long hems can get caught in spokes and on curbs.
Use lightweight materials such as foam board, felt, pool noodles, cardboard and fairy lights.
Attach the costume and accessories with Velcro or zip ties so items can come off quickly and easily.
Choose short sleeves or open sides for those who self-propel, and avoid anything that bunches under a seat belt or harness.

“People don’t need to make large changes,” Bielefeldt said. “Some small tweaks and being aware of the challenges can go a long way towards improving accessibility and making Halloween a wonderful experience for everyone.”

Since 1946, Matheny has offered a full range of healthcare services and educational opportunities to children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities in New Jersey. Matheny provides medical care, education, therapeutic services, recreational programs, independent living opportunities and a fine arts program to individuals with some of the most complex disabilities in the region. Matheny, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary, is a nationally recognized special hospital and nonprofit private school based in Peapack.