Think of kids with development issues when handing out candy this Halloween!

With Halloween coming up, it might be easy to forget that developmentally challenged kids may not understand the whole trick-or-treat process.

Our son has been really slow to develop his speech and fine motor skills with what he went through early life.  This will be his first Halloween where he is able to really participate and knows what is going on to an extent.  He didn't understand the process of going to the door and saying "trick or treat" and getting candy in the past.  He now knows all about candy and I'm sure will be intent on getting as much as possible.  So, we are hoping for a fun and lucrative outing tomorrow night.  But, his speech is a little hard to understand and I'm sure it will take a few trial-and-errors to get the process down.

I just saw Love From The Oven post this, and had to share as it really relates to our son:

"In a few days, lots of little ones will visit your door. Please be open minded and accepting. The child who is grabbing more than one piece of candy may have poor fine motor skills. The child who takes forever to pick a piece of candy may have motor planning issues. The child who does not say trick or treat or thank you may be non-verbal or have apraxia of speech. The child who looks disappointed when they see your candy bowl may have a life threatening food allergy. The child not wearing a costume may have sensory processing disorder. Be kind, be patient and give a smile. It can make an incredible difference to a child with special needs. And their families. Thank you!"

So, when you're handing out candy or run into a little one pushing his way to the front of a group of kids, have some grace and patience that they are learning and above all else, just have a good attitude and have fun!

Spider Girl and MIKE WAZOWSKI!