Halloween can be a special time for kids and adults who enjoy a good fright, eating sweets, and staying up late. It's that time of the year for all of our favorite holidays!

How do we know when when it's too much Halloween to enjoy in such a small window of time? When should we pull the plug? Every parent has a different way of giving their special needs child the same fun experience that an atypical child has on this creative holiday, but hidden are limits and we may need to tune into messages that enough is enough for the night.

Sometimes with people in the ASD spectrum, a slight change in behavior may surface such as being over stimulated (gross motor stemming, body tremors, or becoming overly vocal). Others may become afraid, and startle at the slightest movement which is definitely a sign of anxiety. These are the times when we may have to regulate the rest of the evening for the well-being of all.

There are ways to enjoy Halloween without the excess. For example, substitute a candy bar, for homemade peanut butter and coconut balls. Switch out candy for packages of dehydrated fruit; mangos are a favorite for my exceptional adults. Also, taking a drive to see all of the Halloween decorations in the neighborhood makes for an easy return home. If you host a party, it may be wise to have it on the weekend and not on a school night or the night before a routine activity such as going to a social program.

Choosing a balance may keep Halloween happy for the entire family. May yours be just that!