Oct 3, 2011

Halloween is truly terrifying

Last year on October 31st I did something awful to my son. I put him in a costume. He didn't want to, but it was Halloween, and we had the cutest lion outfit, and I figured he'd get over it. It got worse. We were invited to join the large group of neighborhood preschoolers and toddlers in their trick or treat adventure, and the amusing tradition of reverse trick or treating, where the adults hand out beer to the adults handing out candy.

We had never heard of sensory processing disorder at that point, and didn't know that the sight of all those kids, especially kids in costume, and the unpredictable volume of 20 excited fairies and monsters.

I didn't make him keep the hood up, and he hung back from the large group, heading to the door as the last kid left. He did okay, happy about getting candy, and only breaking down when the group shouted trick or treat for a camera.

This year, though, we're talking about Halloween, what happens, what is fun, and letting him decide if he wants to take part. So far, he has said no, and despite my own love of trick or treating, I won't ever force him again.



2 comments:

Lyssa said...

Aw, poor little guy. Perhaps closer to time he'll be enticed by the candy and decide he would like to go. You might come up with a creative normal-clothes sort of costume. Katie for instance is going to be Tails the fox this year in an orange shirt, orange pants, pigtail "ears", and whatever sort of tails I can manage to attach to her shirt. I found it fun to find a "costume" that I can use beforehand and afterward :) Perhaps Simon might enjoy Waldo of "Where's Waldo?" fame? Or just a new festive shirt?

Either way you are a super Mom :) you inspire me. I hope that you all enjoy this lovely fall season with or without a "traditional" Halloween :) love you!

Lalita Ham said...

Great idea! I'll put together a feels-like-regular-clothes costume to have on hand in case he changes his mind nearer to the actual event. You have great ideas!