Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 17 Age can be another overlooked barrier. A teenager with a disability may still thoroughly enjoy trick-or-treating, even if their disability isn't immediately apparent. "It's important to remember that chronological age and develop- mental age aren't the same thing," Cooper said. Perhaps one of the most overlooked barriers, however, is the assumption that every trick-or-treater will communicate, behave or look a certain way. "A child might not say 'trick-or-treat' or 'thank you,' may use a com- munication device or gestures, or may respond to the excitement of Halloween in ways that look different from what we expect," said Amy Umble, communications coordinator for the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB). "That doesn't mean the child isn't enjoying the experience or doesn't understand what is happening." Killian was nonverbal for years and relied on sign language. Today, he is verbal but largely non-conversational, and his family is intro- ducing an AAC device programmed with a dedicated "trick-or-treat" button. Grooms noted that Killian may not respond. While his family gently prompts him, his communication style looks different from tradi- tional expectations. ARE YOU TRAINED? Sign-up Today! www.rappahannockareacsb.org/trainings Mental Health First Aid (English & Spanish) safeTALK Understanding ACEs Youth Mental Health First Aid Trauma Informed ASIST REVIVE! Opioid Response Let Go of Expectations Creating a more inclusive Halloween doesn't require complicated changes. It starts with letting go of preset expectations. Not every child will wear a traditional costume, make eye contact, say "trick or treat" or say "thank you." Some may communicate through technology or gestures, while others may need assistance from a sibling or parent. Ultimately, inclusion doesn't mean every child has to participate in the exact same way. It means making room for different ways of communicating, moving, experiencing and celebrating. Sometimes, true inclusion is as simple as holding out a bowl of candy, smiling and saying, "Happy Halloween." "You don't know the story behind the kid in front of you or what their day, their year or their life has actually required of them just to get to your porch in a costume," Cooper said. "All they're looking for is a fun night, and that's a gift every child deserves." Accessibility isn't limited to whether a child can physically reach a front door. "Many people think only about physical wheelchair access, but accessibility involves much more," said Debra Fults, executive director of the disAbility Resource Center. She explained that children may have chronic health conditions, low vision, blindness, hearing loss, sensory, communication or developmental disabilities that are not immediately visible. Homeowners can make a big impact with simple adjustments: keeping pathways clear and well-lit and meeting trick-or-treaters at the end of the driveway. Small Changes, Big Difference Participation Doesn't Have to Look the Same

• Cover