BENTONVILLE, Ark. — With Halloween coming up next week, dozens of people gathered on Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Bentonville Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center for a sensory-friendly trunk or treat.
Hopbridge physician Britney Cook says this event is designed to be inclusive for every kid who participates.
“We like to have this event so we can have a sensory-friendly alternative to the trick-or-treating that's done at night, which can be overwhelming and overstimulating for children. So we just like to have it in the daytime. We like to have resources like we have stickers here that say, "Please be patient, I have autism" in case they do choose to go trick or treating, they have something that identifies," said Cook.
Cassie Ross with "Autism Involves Me" asks that when you’re handing out candy on Halloween night, be aware of children who are neurodivergent.
"Some kids might have communication devices and it takes them longer to say trick-or-treat. But really just be patient. Be kind. If you're unsure, ask the parents, but just be welcoming to all children that come to your houses on Halloween." Ross said about trick-or-treating on Halloween.
Parents in the community are grateful Hopebridge hosts events like these and hope to see more across the region.
"It's awareness out there for parents and that they have support for their children. Lucas has been attending the school for about a year, year and a half and it has helped him tremendously." Says Jamie Luttrell, the parent of a Hopebridge student.
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