How We 'Trunk-or-Treat' on Halloween So My Daughter With Special Needs Is Included

In our community we have been celebrating Halloween as a “trunk-or-treat,” which is great for my little daughter with special needs, who has issues with being pushed around in the dark.

I’ll admit, I’m not sure how into getting dressed up she is. That part is mostly for us parents. I love seeing her cute face dressed up as a character. She likes to lick the candy. It’s always careful management of her comfort and making sure she is enjoying it.

This year we rigged up her modified van as a monster. She sat inside with the candy to give out, and we “lured” kids in with that promised treat. Then, the bottom ramp was lifted by remote while laughter was heard. Many kids screamed and laughed.

My daughter did enjoy it, and so did we.

It’s just as important for parents and siblings to feel included and part of community activities. Even with living in a community with the best intentions, you can still feel isolated because your life is just so very different on a fundamental level. Most days, I’m OK with that, but there will always be days of feeling isolated, for my husband, myself, and my daughter.

 

So, I especially appreciate when we have a successful integration of a “typical” experience, or even better, when we do it with a flair of our own.

Happy Halloween!