As educators, creating a safe and supportive environment is always a priority, especially for students who have experienced trauma. With Halloween right around the corner, your classroom might be gearing up for special parties and fun activities! While many kids love getting into the spooky spirit, for children who’ve experienced trauma, some Halloween festivities can feel overwhelming or even a little scary.
We spoke with Krista Finch, Chaddock’s Client Relations Manager, about how you can create an environment that’s fun and safe for all your students.
- Watch for Triggers and Trauma-Related Sensitivities
Krista reminds us that Halloween parties can be overstimulating for some students. The loud environment, sugary snacks, extra food dyes, and excitement can be overwhelming. When planning your classroom party, keep these things in mind. She also suggests avoiding scary costumes, creepy music, fake blood, and toy weapons. Even fog machines can be scary for children who’ve experienced trauma, as they might associate them with smoke. Jumping out to scare kids or darkened classrooms could also cause distress. - Provide Breaks and Check In with Your Students
Krista recommends offering students a chance to step outside the party environment to help them regulate. She also stresses the importance of reassurance. Remind your students that you’re there to keep everyone safe and check in with them regularly. Ask how they’re feeling and set clear limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
“Attunement is key,” Krista says. As the teacher, you’ll likely know which students may need extra support during the party. If certain students begin to exhibit behaviors, it usually means they’re experiencing big feelings. Some children might not have the words to express how they’re feeling, so be attentive to what their behavior is communicating. If you anticipate that certain students might struggle, consider assigning them as helpers. This will allow you to keep them close and check in with them more frequently. - Plan a Mix of Activities
Here’s a pro-tip from Krista: End your classroom party with a calming, focused activity to help students leave feeling relaxed and centered. To help your students stay regulated, plan a balance of high-energy and calming activities. Krista suggests alternating between more intense, exciting games (high activities) and calming, regulating activities (low activities). This mix ensures that students won’t become overstimulated, as the calming activities help them reset their nervous systems.
Quick Tips for a Fun and Balanced Party
If you’re looking for easy-to-implement ideas, here are a few suggestions from Krista!
Fun, Healthy Snack Options:
- Apple slices with peanut butter and marshmallows to make a smile with “teeth.”
- Draw a Frankenstein face on a cup filled with grapes.
- Create a popcorn bar with different seasoning options.
- Use sugar-free pudding cups and draw ghost faces on the outside with a marker.
Candy Alternatives:
- Look for Halloween-themed fidgets or mini-games, either online or in stores.
FREE Activity: Looking for a sensory-based game for your classroom party? Try our Halloween Mystery Bag activity! It helps students explore textures and use their imagination. If you have parents helping out with your Halloween festivities, this is perfect to send their way!
