TreatAccessibly.com was founded in 2017 and is on a mission to make Halloween the first inclusive holiday in the world. With over 400,000 disabled kids in Canada alone, this initiative started to make Halloween inclusive and not exclude any child - simple changes, like putting your treat station at the end of the drive if you have steps, allows wheelchair users to take part. If you are celebrating Halloween this year, implement these simple tips to make Halloween more accessible.
Provide Barrier-free Access
Some trick-or-treaters may have difficulties navigating inclines, stairs, curving walkways, etc. Make sure to place your trick-or-treating station at a location that is easily accessible to all.
- Make sure the path to your trick-or-treating station is well lit.
Clear your driveway and pathways of any obstacles. - Park your vehicle on the street or in your garage to allow easy access.
- Set up your trick-or-treating station at the end of your driveway or in your garage.
- If your home doesn't have a driveway why don't you use your vehicle to trunk-or-treat? Show your creativity and decorate your vehicle to make it extra special.
Create a Safe Environment
If you are planning to decorate your trick-or-treating station, your front yard, or other visible areas of your home make sure that you are creating decorations that can be enjoyed by all.
- Refrain from the use of strobe lights and high-pitched, sudden loud noises which may be alarming for some children.
- Some pets can be intimidating so make sure that they are kept safely away from the front of the house.
Everyone is different
Different disabilities can affect how someone interacts with others. All it takes is a little patience and understanding to ensure that trick-or-treaters feel comfortable and welcome.
- Not everyone can eat candy, so consider stocking some non-edible treats such as stickers, pencils, crayons, small toys, etc. stored in a bowl separate from your edible treats.
- You may see trick-or-treaters that appear older, but that doesn't mean that aren't excited about your treats!
- Some trick-or-treaters may not be able to see what they are getting. Consider explaining to them the delightful treat you're providing. Not
- Not everyone communicates in the same way. Just be patient and understanding. The children and their caregivers will appreciate it.
Let's make Halloween accessible for everybody.
In 2017 the Padulo Family realized they had to change how they set up their trick-or-treating station. Their home has stairs. This meant that someone in their neighbourhood could not enjoy their treats as they used a wheelchair to get around. They changed where their station was located and thought: wouldn't others also want to know how to make Halloween accessible and inclusive for all? And so Treat Accessibly was founded. An accessible Halloween for one child has now grown across Canada with over 100,000 homes supporting accessible trick-or-treating, letting their neighbours know with their Treat Accessibly lawn sign proudly displayed on their front lawn.
