Wellbeing

SWPBS - Whittlesea World

Whittlesea World was a huge success this week! We want to congratulate all students who traded in their Golden Tickets for a range of prizes, including Principal for the morning, footy & basketball cards, fidgets, textas and notepads, stretchy noodles, bouncy balls, popits, and more. This term, we will reopen Whittlesea World in week 8 and again in week 10, so students can continue earning and spend their Golden Tickets. A big thank you to our Year 6 helpers who set up and then ran Whittlesea World.

Disability Inclusion

🎃Supporting Neurodivergent Children on Halloween

Halloween can be an exciting time filled with costumes, decorations and treats — but for many neurodivergent children, the changes in routine, loud noises, bright lights and social expectations can be overwhelming. Whether your child is autistic, has ADHD, sensory sensitivities, or simply finds busy environments tricky, a little planning can make the night fun and comfortable for everyone.

While Halloween is becoming increasingly popular in Australia, not all families celebrate it in the same way. Some enjoy trick-or-treating through the neighbourhood, while others prefer quiet activities at home or simple themed fun with friends. Every approach is perfectly okay — the goal is to find what feels right for your family and child.

Here are some practical ways to support neurodivergent children on Halloween:

👻 1. Talk About What to Expect

Explain what Halloween is and what will happen in advance, from dressing up to hearing doorbells and seeing spooky decorations. Visuals, photos or short videos can help prepare them for what’s coming.

🎭 2. Choose Comfortable Costumes

Skip itchy fabrics, masks or outfits with tight seams. Consider simple costumes made from everyday clothes, a superhero T-shirt, animal ears, or a fun hat — that can still feel special.

🕯️ 3. Keep the Schedule Predictable

If possible, plan a clear start and finish time. You might visit a few familiar houses rather than the whole street. Some families even enjoy a “Halloween at home” — dressing up, watching a movie, or doing a lolly hunt indoors.

🍬 4. Practise “Trick or Treat” Ahead of Time

Role-play what to say and do when visiting a neighbour’s house. This helps children feel more confident and reduces anxiety at night.

🔦 5. Manage Sensory Inputs

Avoid houses with flashing lights, loud sound effects or large crowds. Bring noise-cancelling headphones or sunglasses if needed. Taking short breaks between houses can help too.

💬 6. Respect Their Boundaries

If your child doesn’t want to wear a costume, say “Trick or Treat,” or go out at all — that’s okay! There are many ways to enjoy Halloween without following every tradition.

🏡 7. Create a Safe Base

Having a quiet space to return to — at home or in the car — can help your child reset if things get too much. A comfort item, like a favourite toy or blanket, can also be reassuring.

🎃 8. Celebrate Their Way

Halloween doesn’t have to look one way. Your family could decorate pumpkins, bake themed treats, or share in small sensory-friendly activities that feel right for your child.

By planning ahead and staying flexible, we can help ensure Halloween is an inclusive, positive experience for all children, full of fun, not fear.