Tips for Managing Halloween Anxiety

Helping Kids Face Their Halloween Fears: A Parent’s Guide to a Fun (and Fear-Free) Holiday

Costumes, candy, and creativity. Halloween should be fun. But for some kids, especially those who struggle with anxiety or sensory sensitivities, Halloween can be overwhelming or even scary. At Central Ohio Pediatric Behavioral Health, we understand how heartbreaking it can be to see your child feel frightened or left out of the fun. That’s why we’re sharing a few simple, empowering tips to help your child feel safe and supported this spooky season.

1. Start with Empathy

 Before diving into solutions, let your child know it’s okay to be scared. Whether it’s the eerie decorations, spooky sounds, or unexpected surprises, Halloween can bring up big emotions. Validate their feelings with phrases like:

“It’s okay to feel nervous. Halloween can be a lot sometimes.”
“I’m here to help you feel safe while we have fun.”

When kids feel seen and heard, their fears become more manageable.

2. Preview the Day Together
Talk through what Halloween might look like ahead of time. What will they wear? Where will they go? Who will be there?

Use pictures or even role-play to walk them through the experience. This gives them a sense of control and predictability, something anxious kids often crave.

3. Choose Comfort Over Costume
If your child is sensitive to textures, heat, or loud sounds, choose a costume that feels safe and familiar. Some kids may prefer pajamas with a cape, or a fun T-shirt that says “This is my costume.” The goal is participation without pressure.

4. Practice “Scary” in Small Doses
Help your child build confidence by practicing “scary” things in a safe environment.

• Watch not-so-scary Halloween movies.

• Visit a store aisle with decorations and talk about how they’re just pretend.

• Let them help decorate your home in a way that feels fun, not frightening.

The goal isn’t to eliminate fear but to show your child they can handle it.

5. Plan an Exit Strategy
If your child is joining in trick-or-treating or a party, have a plan if things get overwhelming. This might mean:

• A quiet spot to take breaks

• A signal they can use when they need to leave

• A backup plan like a family movie night at home. Knowing there’s a “Plan B” may help give your child the courage to try.

6. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
It’s okay if your Halloween looks a little different from others. What matters most is that your child feels safe, supported, and connected to you. Whether they trick-or-treat for 20 minutes or just enjoy pumpkin cookies at home, they’re still building positive memories.

If Halloween anxiety is part of a bigger pattern of fear, avoidance, or distress, we’re here to help. At Central Ohio Pediatric Behavioral Health, our experienced clinicians specialize in supporting children through life’s emotional challenges, big and small. You don’t have to do this alone.

Call to Action:
Ready to help your child feel more confident and calm this Halloween and beyond? Contact us today to get started.