Quote:
Originally Posted by AGDLynn
Copied from my niece's FB page (she copied from a friend):
Tomorrow night, a lot of creatures will visit your door. Be open minded. The child who is grabbing more than one piece of candy might have poor fine motor skills. The child who takes forever to pick out one piece of candy might have motor planning issues. The child who does not say "trick or treat" or "thank you" might be painfully shy, non-verbal, or selectively mute. If you cannot understand their words, they may struggle with developmental apraxia of speech. They are thankful in their hearts and minds. The child who looks disappointed when he sees your bowl might have a life-threatening allergy. The child who isn't wearing a costume at all might have a sensory processing disorder or autism. Be kind, be patient, smile, pretend you understand. It's everyone's Halloween. Make a parent feel good by making a big deal of their special child.
|
When my son was small, we actually practiced trick or treating well in advance of Halloween. We so appreciated the houses that were patient with him, and especially those people who extended kindness in recognition of his efforts as an achievement.
Thanks to all of you who do take an extra moment to be kind and withhold judgement -- this understanding makes it possible for a child to be included in and learn from his community.
My son is now in high school, and declared last year that he was "too old" to trick or treat. I really miss having my own little ones all dressed up -- but I enjoy the kids who do come knocking.
And the older kids -- who arrive in groups dressed as a theme -- get extra candy for effort. Had a Wizard of Oz group this year.
.