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Little peacock
The tricky parts of Halloween are always trying to figure how to keep kids safe…and manage their sugar levels. For parents of kids with disabilities, there are myriad other considerations when planning for Halloween. A quick local survey reveals that many parents look for options for their children with disabilities, parties designed with accessibility in mind, for example, so their trick-or-treater can have fun without mom and dad feeling too nervous all evening. However, a review of options in Denver this past week, show very few venues with a Halloween theme specifically catering to children with disabilities. Other cities across the country, including San Francisco,Tampa and in Vancouver, BC, posted articles and photos of their events.
Other parents say, though, that they want their children with disabilities to participate with siblings and other neighborhood kids, trick-or-treating on this night. Depending on the type of disability, of course, this takes some planning on the part of parents and neighbors. If the child walks with the use of a cane or crutches, for example, chances are they may be undaunted by steps as long as they have some assistance. If not, the parent must ensure that someone is with the child who can help him or her up steps. Having someone carry the candy bag is probably also useful. There are accessory pouches that fit traditional crutches, although they are generally not very big for all that “loot” that kids grab on this special night.
For children in wheelchairs, the prospect of trick-or-treating is more challenging. Because a manual wheelchair generally weighs less than a power chair, I have seen parents or other caregivers lift the child in the chair up steps to get close to the front door of a home. (More later on how the neighbor handles this situation.) If the child is small enough to be lifted out of the chair, the caregiver does this and brings the child to the door.
Raising awareness in the neighborhood may take some preparation on the part of a family with a child with disabilities. Let the neighbors know that you are planning for your child to be out for a while tonight. Ask if they will be willing to come to the driveway or street (assuming there are steps or other obstacles impossible to maneuver) to bring the treat to your child. Maybe you can tell the neighbors the timeframe you will be out and about so they can be prepared with some help. These few preparatory steps can make the evening fun for everyone and ease any concerns on the neighbors’ part.
• Always clear sidewalks and steps of snow, leaves and other debris. You should do this anyway since children in costumes are more prone to trip, slip or fall; this precaution ensures a safer place for everyone. It is a crucial step not to be overlooked for those using mobility devices. Halloween decorations should not block walkways or stairs under any circumstance.
• If you know the child with disabilities in your neighborhood is planning to trick-or-treat, perhaps renting a small ramp for the evening might be a wonderful gesture to help him or her navigate more easily up the step off the driveway, for example. You can find this type of ramp at medical equipment stores and some general rental stores. Even if you have too many stairs to get to the door, the child will feel great getting to the bottom of your stairs so you will see him or her there, all dressed up in that scary costume.
• Talk to your own children about awareness of other children who may have disabilities or difficulties maneuvering up and down streets and into yards. The excitement (and sugar highs) of Halloween often lead kids to be less than observing about who is around them. Running, jostling and pushing can be hard enough to manage under the best of circumstances. For children with disabilities this type of behavior can lead to serious outcomes.
• Above all, follow the caregivers lead. Whoever is accompany the child with disabilities will be alert and focused on the best interest of the child, so look to him or her for guidance on how to handle any situation that might feel new or uncomfortable for you.
This night belongs to kids of every age, ability and circumstance. Awareness of them and their particular needs will ensure that everyone has a good time. Parents of one child in a wheelchair mentioned that Halloween on wheels works for them, especially towards the end of the evening when they see other parents carrying their tots, tired out and nearly in a coma from eating all that candy along the way!
Here’s to a safe and fun Halloween tonight!
Send your observations about Halloween and mobility to Kathryn. If you have a child with disabilities, please share your preparations, stories and photos from this spookiest of nights.
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