The Arc of the Shoals and We Are Chapel are co-hosting a Sensory-Friendly Trunk or Treat! Sensory-friendly means that it is inclusive for EVERYONE, but we are being extra mindful of those who have sensory needs.
The event will be hosted on Thursday, October 20, 2022, at We Are Chapel Church (3051 Cloverdale Rd. Florence, AL 35633). The time will be 5:30-7:30 in the parking lot.
This event promotes a safer and more inclusive celebration of the traditional Halloween festivity. Our event understands that individuals with exceptionalities of all ages may struggle or be excluded from typical trick-or-treating due to: social skills, physical accessibility, communication, allergies, etc. Our Trunk or Treat facilitates a lower sensory demand on guests by providing an environment with no harsh lights or sounds, and many treats/sensory-friendly options (stickers, stress balls, etc). Guests and their families can also use the event to practice the skills associated with trick-or-treating prior to the big day. Our Trunk or Treat is a family-friendly event and we encourage siblings to participate as well! Participants of all ages are welcome to join us for Trunk or Treating, games, crafts, activities, and much more!
We ask that if you are interested in setting up a trunk/booth, please register using this link: https://forms.gle/RHUkF9nE5CFzC7px8
Some things to consider to make this more accessible to a diverse population:
Provide games such as “fishing” using a kiddie pool, Twister, Connect4, etc.
Have face painting or stickers to give as a substitution for treats.
Do a craft activity like making rain sticks, painting, or coloring.
Have sensory items available for people to feel such as slime, water beads, soft pillows, etc.
If you would like additional guidance on what may be considered sensory-friendly, please feel free to reach out to Dustin Phillips at d.phillips0601@gmail.com and he will be happy to share additional ideas with you!
Arc of the Shoals 