With lots of lights, sounds and scary decorations, Halloween can be an especially tricky time for children and families with autism.
Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a company of behavioral clinicians specializing in the care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) throughout Central Massachusetts, is proud to sponsor the first annual “Halloween Full of Pieces” autism-friendly Halloween party which will be held on October 29, 2017 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Knights of Columbus, 91 Mannville Street, Leicester. This event is open to the public.
Hosted by the Knights of Columbus in Leicester, this special event is a sensory-friendly and safe trick or treating experience for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). BCI’s Applied Behavior Analysis Therapists (ABAs) will oversee the event alongside the Knights and parent volunteers.
The event will feature a sensory corner, haunted house, and a variety of activities such as face painting, pumpkin bowling, pumpkin painting, sugar cookie decorating, paper plate monsters and more. A raffle and bake sale will also be held.
There is no cost to attend and children may wear costumes if they wish. RSVP to the party by visiting http://conta.cc/2xK7LUC.
According to Sally Burke, a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at BCI, “Some children with autism struggle with pretend-play, and can have issues related to different types of costume clothing fabrics as well as to costume accessories. Social skills may be an area of need and some children may not be able to engage in appropriate responses that may possibly lead to other behavioral challenges.”
Burke continued, “You want your child to be part of this exciting experience and engage in these fun traditions, but you are worried that Halloween may just not be for you and your child.”
Burke offers the following five tips to help families with autism celebrate Halloween:
- Create a visual social story or find a book that discusses the topic of Halloween and all it offers and what to expect prior to the event.
- Look for opportunities to practice trick or treating. Review and rehearse the act of trick or treating and practice the skill with a family member or neighbor you know well.
- Know their limits. If they can only handle a few houses, do not push them to do more and be sure to praise them for a job well done.
- Go to places where your child may already be comfortable, such as relatives, friends, etc. This pairs the new activity of trick or treating with already established places and people. Consider skipping homes with lots of lights, sounds and scary decorations.
- Consider staying home and having your child help you pass out treats. They may enjoy this just as much as going out.
For more information, visit www.bciaba.org.
About Behavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI)
Behavioral Concepts (BCI) provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children with autism and their families in central Massachusetts. BCI identifies and facilitates effective personalized instruction that allows children to discover more, learn more, and be more – increasing their independence and enhancing their quality of life at home, in school, and in the community. As a Massachusetts Department of Public Health approved provider of specialty ABA services for early intervention, BCI provides center, home-based, and after-school services through private and public health insurance. The organization was founded in 2002 by Dr. Jeffrey R. Robinson. Further information on BCI is available at http://bciaba.com.
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