Halloween should be about imagination and excitement, not discomfort. Costumes can sometimes feel overwhelming for kids with Autism or Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). The good news is that with a few sensory friendly tweaks, your child can enjoy dressing up in comfort and confidence.
1. Superhero
Traditional issue: Tight synthetic suits with zippers that irritate the skin.
Sensory friendly fix:
Use a tag free base layer like compression leggings and a soft long sleeve shirt.
Add an easily removable cape or fabric logo attached with Velcro.
Skip masks and use a lightweight felt eye mask or washable face paint.
Shop the look: Explore Sense-ational You’s sensory-friendly shirts and adaptive joggers.
2. Tinker Bell (or Any Fairy)
Traditional issue: Tulle skirts and glitter wings can feel scratchy and stiff.
Sensory friendly fix:
Start with a soft green dress or a tag free top and pants made from breathable materials. Then add lightweight mesh wings with soft straps or elastic loops instead of hard plastic.
Shop the look: You can find sensory friendly tag free green clothing from The Autism Store!
3. Firefighter or Police Officer
Traditional issue: Heavy jackets and noisy accessories can be overstimulating
Sensory friendly fix:
We recommend choosing lightweight cotton pants and a breathable shirt in navy or black. Replace heavy jackets with printed T shirts or an easily removable sticker. Finally, use soft foam props instead of plastic ones.
Shop the look: Compression Lined T-Shirt and Adaptive Pants make perfect bases for sensory friendly costumes.
4. Astronaut
Traditional issue: Bulky suits and helmets can feel restrictive.
Sensory friendly fix:
Choose lightweight white joggers and a soft white long sleeve shirt. You can add Velcro NASA style patches or easily removable stickers. Also, Replace helmets with a cozy knit beanie. For a warmer layer, check out our QuietSense Sound Reducing Sensory Hoodie!
Shop the look: White Adaptive Shirt and Nasa Sticker
5. Princess Bell (or any other princess)
Traditional issue: Itchy lace and bulky skirts.
Sensory friendly fix:
Start with a simple yellow cotton dress or soft t-shirt and a sensory-friendly skirt or joggers.
Add gentle details like a soft stretchy tutu or comfortable crowns.. You can also use felt stars or fabric gems instead of sequins.
Shop the look: Compression Lined T-Shirt
6. Doctor or Vet
Traditional issue: Stiff coats and tight buttons.
Sensory friendly fix:
Use a loose T shirt or soft button down as a lab coat. Add stick-on patches/ stickers or printed stethoscope decals. Include a plush animal patient for comfort and imaginative play
Shop the look: Compression Lined T-Shirt
Final Tips for a Successful Sensory-Friendly Halloween
Let your child try on the costume early and practice wearing it for short periods. We also recommend packing comfort objects for trick or treating such as headphones, fidgets, or a cozy hoodie. Choosing quieter, well lit neighborhoods or going out early in the evening can also help avoid sensory overload.
Check out our Resource Blog, Tiktok, Instagram, and Shop for more fun and educational sensory content and clothing products! 🎉