Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation – Special needs kids can explore the gorgeous West Park for unbe-leaf-able fun. Kids will crunch, jump, and discover the different types of Fall leaves by going on a color scavenger hunt, playing in nature, and tracing native Indiana leaves. Cost is $6. This program is available for preschoolers and school-age children. Registration is required.
Trick-or-treating is a rite of passage for most kids. But for those with special needs, the events surrounding this ghoulish holiday can be more frightening than fun. That doesn’t mean you need to miss out.
Tips for Enjoying a Special Needs Halloween
- Kids with food allergies can carry a teal pumpkin to indicate their needs.
- Target has launched a line of adaptive Halloween costumes designed with all kids in mind.
- Create a neighborhood map or a visual schedule and let your child cross off what has been completed. AndNextComesL.com has a selection of Halloween themed social stories to get you started.
- Watch some Halloween movies that have scenes of kids trick-or-treating.
- Download or make your own printable card for kids who struggle with communication.
- Set realistic expectations and don’t be afraid to limit activities or turn in early.
Special Needs Friendly Fall and Halloween Events in Indy
Special Needs Fall Fest at Watch us Farm
October 12, 10 am – 2 pm
9906 E 200 S., Zionsville
This Fall Fest is intended to provide children with special needs and their families with a stress-free and fun-filled day of activities. Enjoy games, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting food and more.
Fall Celebration and One-Year Anniversary Open House at Embracing Abilities
October 12, 1 – 5 pm
6734 E US Hwy 36, Avon
Join Embracing Abilities as they celebrate our their one-year anniversary with a fall celebration and clinic open house. There will be food, crafts, games and more.
Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat Walk with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
October 19, 1 pm – 3 pm
1235 Central Park Dr. E, Carmel
Friendly volunteers will be dressed up, without scary or frightening masks or costumes, along the accessible Central Park Trails. You can go as fast or as leisurely as you need while you enjoy this festive fall experience. Cost is $5. Pre-Registration is required.
Fall Fest Open House at Link to Learn Behavior Therapy
October 19, 3 pm – 6 pm
9935 Eller Rd., Fishers
Join Link to Learn Behavior Therapy for the Fall Fest Open House. Enjoy painting pumpkins, snacks, family photos and tours of their ABA therapy center.
Halloween Party at Carter’s Play Place
October 25, 6 pm – 9 pm
17219 Foundation Parkway, Suite 100, Carmel
Come celebrate Halloween at Carter’s! There will be pizza, music, dancing, treats, games, and a costume contest at 8p! $10 per child, free for adults (with an additional $5 for those adults who want pizza). Registration preferred.
Boo Bash (Including Sensory Area and Teal Pumpkin Booths) at the Nickel Plate Amphitheater
October 26, 10 am – 1 pm
6 Municipal Dr., Fishers
Children of all ages are invited to Boo Bash on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Central Green and at the NPD AMP. This year’s event includes over 50 vendor booths for safe trick or treating, fang-tastic giveaways, bewitching live entertainment, and more.
Sensory Friendly Trunk or Treat at Dynamic Music Therapy
October 26, 3pm – 6 pm
7502 Madison Ave, Indianapolis
Come join Dynamic Music Therapy families and therapists in a fun Halloween Trunk or Treat! There will be fun activities for the kids as well as multiple decorated trunks handing out fun treats. This event is intended to be sensory mindful as well as sensitive to our friends with all abilities. Costumes welcome! This event will take place rain or shine.
Southwood Church Teal Pumpkin Festival
October 27, 3pm – 5 pm
8700 S Meridian St, Indianapolis
Enjoy bounce houses (weather permitting), face painting, balloon animals, a photo booth, carnival games, and lots of non food prizes (think bubbles, bracelets, bouncy balls, glow sticks, and more)! Kids are welcome to wear their costumes (but they don’t have to) and come ready for fun! Plus, there will also be gift card giveaways for the adults as well, with drawings every 15 minutes.
Community Trunk-n-Treat (With Allergy-Friendly Treats) at The Promise UMC
October 27, 3pm – 5 pm
12648 E 116th St, Fishers
Bring your little ghouls and goblins for an afternoon of family fun featuring games, face painting, apple cider, popcorn, and candy. Kids of all ages are invited to participate. Plenty of peanut-free and allergy-sensitive treats will be available.
Allergy Friendly Halloween Extravaganza at ATA Generations
October 30, 6 pm – 7:30 pm
481 Southpoint Circle, Brownsburg
Join ATA Generations for their annual Halloween Extravaganza. Enjoy trick or treating with non-food treats and nut free candy, face painting, tattoos, games, crafts, bounce houses and raffles!