7 Considerations for Inclusivity This Halloween
There’s been a lot more awareness recently about inclusion in the media and society as a whole, and I’m so excited about it. Sometimes they might seem like small problems to be pointing out, but for many they are just yet another barrier to enjoying daily life. It’s absolutely essential to deepen the conversation and really, critically look at how our society is operating.
So today, I’m going to be sharing 7 things to consider this year to make your Halloween more inclusive.
COVID Compassion
Halloween 2021 is probably going to look quite a bit different from Halloween 2020, but the truth is that we’re still in a global pandemic.
Here in Ontario, Canada, we aren’t quite in a provincial lockdown, but we’re still a long way to go from being free from restrictions. In the wake of mandatory vaccinations for many and the delta variant, as well as ongoing mask mandates and social distancing, many parents might find the upcoming holiday to be confusing and anxiety-inducing.
Should your kids wear masks? Should you wear masks?
And for candy givers: do you put the candy bowl at the end of the property, or are we handing it out in person?
There’s a lot of questions, and I wish I had all the answers. What I do know is that no matter how a kid comes to your door: it doesn’t matter. Do what makes you comfortable. If you don’t want anyone coming up to your porch for proximity concerns, maybe leaving a table and bowl at the end of your driveway will be a good fit. Double vaxxed and want some trick-or-treaters? If their parents are also comfortable, go for it!
What’s important is that this stays a safe and fun holiday for the kids, because that’s really who this is about. People who are still nervous about the pandemic aren’t trying to be rude or offensive, and people who are trying to celebrate the holiday after 2 years of a global crisis aren’t trying to be inconsiderate.
Let’s all remember that each of us is just trying to do the best that we can.
2. “Trick-Or-Treat”
It’s absolutely adorable when an eight-year-old Batman or a tiny Elsa holds up their bucket (pro tip: pillowcases make the BEST candy collectors!) or bag and says “trick-or-treat!”
Some say it boldly, with confidence, and others might stammer through it or barely whisper.
But what if the kid on your doorstep doesn’t say it at all?
What if they don’t say anything?
I’m here to argue that it Does. Not. Matter. Halloween is intimidating, particularly after 2 years of social distancing. There’s so many reasons why a kid may not say the phrase at your door. From an accessibility perspective, keep in mind that many people are non-verbal, or are struggling with communication barriers or delays, or are new to Canada and are still learning English.
Or, maybe, they’ve said it 50 times and really don’t feel like making it 51. That’s okay. Give them a big smile anyway, don’t comment on it, and dole out the sugar!
3. “Aren’t you a little old?”
While it’s true that most kids decide to stop dressing up and trick-or-treating in their neighbourhoods between the ages of 12-16, there’s several reasons why you might see some older individuals participating this year.
First, many people with developmental or intellectual disabilities may enjoy the holiday festivities long after it’s considered time for them to “grow out of it.” Halloween is a chance to dress up, show off their creativity, explore the neighbourhood, get out of the house, socialize - and, of course, there’s the added benefit of getting free candy, and who doesn’t love that? And, despite continued societal stereotypes, you might not be able to recognize this when you meet them.
Also keep in mind that Halloween was effectively cancelled last year for thousands of kids. Kids have been cooped up in their homes and isolated from their peers on-and-off for the past two years. Even if they might have been close to changing their Halloween routines, maybe they want to go out for one final night.
Or maybe this is just the perfect excuse to hang out with their friends, in person, and just go out and have fun.
Halloween can be a return to normalcy for many this year - even parents or adults. So, whatever the reason, let’s all agree this Halloween to put judgement to the side and let everyone enjoy the day.
4. Decorations
Now I promise this isn’t going to be a Debby Downer on Halloween. I’m not going to tell you not to decorate.
I’ll be honest - I go all out for Halloween decorations. But there are a few things that I try to keep in mind.
If my decorations light up (which...of course some of them do), I make sure that they are set up to strobe synchronously, or at the same time, so that it doesn’t risk triggering an epileptic seizure for anyone who comes by.
You also want to be mindful of how many have loud sounds or musical effects, and if they will all begin to sound off at the same time. Why? Because many people struggle with sensory processing, which essentially means that your cacophony of spookiness could potentially overwhelm them, causing them to go into sensory overload - and, trust me, nobody wants that.
5. Allergies
I miss the days of getting a Reese’s cup, too. But please try to keep in mind that many children have potentially life-threatening allergies. Don’t be the house that makes them need to use their epi-pen - or, worse, have the ambulance show up to.
If you don’t know your neighbourhood very well yet, consider asking parents ahead of time, play it safe with a peanut-free option this year, or let parents know ahead of time if your candy might contain common allergens.
6. Poverty
We’ve all been guilty of ranking neighbourhood houses by their decorations and the amount of candy they give out. Certain houses are considered the “best” if they give out big handfuls or full-sized goodies, and kids will rush to those houses early. Some houses may even be skipped completely if they’re known for “slim pickings”, or their front lawns aren’t crawling with lights and props.
Halloween can be a difficult time financially for many families struggling with poverty. This year is particularly hard for many with the economic impact of COVID-19. Like I said before, everyone is just trying their best, so let’s all agree to try and appreciate everyone for doing what they can to celebrate the holiday. And if you know a neighbour has been struggling, maybe give them a second handful this year!
7. Have Fun!
Despite some of these heavier topics, Halloween is a day to let loose!
It’s all about dressing up, pretending to be someone else, and eating as much junk food as you want! It’s a chance to let your creativity flow.
We can put the stress of the past two years aside and try to live in the present, enjoying the decorations, costumes, and sugar.
These have just been some recommendations for things to consider if you’re wondering how to make your Halloween a little more inclusive for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
But the most powerful thing you can do? Have fun. Enjoy the day.
If you have decorations, go for it! Want to dress up, too? Awesome.
Let’s make this Halloween a day to forget the hardships of the last two years and connect with our community.
