Not A Typical Halloween

Last year, after many challenging and ultimately failed trick-or-treating attempts, I had an idea. What if we went out, to a set number of houses, during the day, with less chaos and zero pressure. No other kids. No scary decorations. No crowds of goblins and Elsa’s at each house.

I sent a message to four of our neighbors and they willingly agreed. I explained to them we may not make it and if we did, it may be ‘colorful.’ They didn’t care. They were excited to be part of Cooper’s day.

With zero pressure of other excited kids, Cooper put on his costume and walked outside with us. We carried a small white board that listed the 4 houses we were going to visit and a marker to cross each one off as we visited.

Each family was waiting for Cooper outside, and cheered him up their driveway. They also had special little treats and treasures that they knew he would enjoy.

It was the best Halloween I have ever had. It was Cooper’s favorite too because it worked for him.

I’ve learned in our life, that almost everything looks different for us. We aren’t your typical family so we would never have your typical holiday. And once I let that go, the good stuff started to come.

Next Saturday, we will be heading out with Cooper around 3 pm to visit our neighbors. Our hope is 5 houses again. After, we will go out with our other kiddos and stay out ‘late!’

Do what works for your family. It can be unconventional. It can look different. That’s okay! It just needs to work for you all. What is your best Halloween advice for families like ours?

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.