Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation will host a sensory-friendly trick-or-treat walk on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 1 – 3 p.m. along the Central Park East trails.
To provide inclusive experiences for the community, CCPR hosts sensory-friendly events as part of its adaptive programming designed for individuals with disabilities.
Related Article: Autism-friendly Trick-or-Treat Tips
Sensory-friendly events are structured for individuals with sensory needs, who might become overwhelmed or overstimulated by their senses, including sight, sound, and touch. During sensory-friendly events, the environment is changed so those with sensory needs are comfortable, can participate fully, and enjoy time with family and friends.
During the trick-or-treat walk there will be no loud music, scary decorations, or people dressed in masks or full-body costumes.
“One of our biggest goals at Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is being inclusive,” said Katie Smith, Inclusion Program Supervisor. “We want to remove barriers that keep people from experiencing recreation programs or holiday events. After hosting our first Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat in 2019, we heard from so many families that it was their first time having a trick-or-treat experience. That’s why it’s important to offer events like this.”
The trick-or-treat loop is accessible and short, and trick-or-treaters can go around the trail multiple times. Volunteers from CCPR’s adaptive program will pass out treats in fun, non-frightening costumes. Each candy station will be socially distanced.
CCPR requests all trick-or-treaters bring their own bag or basket for candy and wear friendly costumes that are not frightening (refrain from wearing masks that cover the full face).
Pre-registration is required for each trick-or-treater. Register for the Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat Walk online here or in person at the Monon Community Center.
