A Cuppa Momsense
October is here, and with it comes the fun (and chaos) of Halloween season. From spooky-but-simple recipes to sensory-friendly costume hacks and even a not-so-scary movie pick, we’ve got you covered. Think of this as your mom-friendly guide to making the most of the season.
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👻 Why Sensory-Friendly Halloween Costumes Are a MUST for Sensitive Kids
For many kids, Halloween costumes are all about fun and imagination. But for highly sensitive children, store-bought options often mean scratchy fabrics, stiff seams, and masks that smell like plastic—all things that can turn a magical night into tears and frustration.
And even kids who aren’t especially sensitive can benefit from comfier costumes since they are often expected to wear those same costumes all day at school, then keep them on for hours of trick-or-treating, classroom parades, or fall festivals. Comfort matters, and an itchy or restrictive costume quickly becomes a recipe for meltdowns (for both kids and parents).
Making Costumes Work for Your Child
The good news is that a sensory-friendly Halloween doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with your child’s comfort: soft fabrics, loose fits, and layers they already love to wear. Pajamas, cozy hoodies, or favorite leggings make a great base, while simple add-ons like capes, hats, or face paint add the festive flair.
Choosing costumes that are easy to move in and breathable makes a huge difference when your child is walking door to door or sitting through hours of classroom activities. With a little creativity (and a lot less scratchy polyester), you can give your child a costume they’ll feel good in all day—so the focus stays on the fun, not the discomfort.
Easy, Comfy Costumes You Can Make at Home
🥷 Ninja
All you really need is a pair of black leggings or sweatpants, a long-sleeve black shirt, and maybe a scarf or headband to tie around your child’s forehead. Add a belt or sash around the waist, and your little ninja is ready to sneak through the neighborhood—no itchy polyester required.
🪐 Elio (from Elio)
This one is simple but so recognizable if your kid loves the movie. Grab a bright green shirt, some shorts, an eye patch and a cape. If you want to take it up a notch, print or draw a little alien on the shirt. Comfortable, familiar, and movie-fan approved.
🎮 Steve (from Minecraft)
Blue jeans, a light blue t-shirt, and sneakers are all you need for the base. To create the full effect, they can carry a toy pickaxe or sword. Easy to wear all day, and instantly recognizable.
🌺 Lilo (from Lilo & Stitch)
Red t-shirt or dress with big white leaf or flower shapes painted on or cut from felt and glued on. Add flip flops or sandals if the weather allows, and maybe a flower hair clip for extra Hawaiian vibes. Cute, comfy, and school-friendly.
🌾 Scarecrow
Overalls or jeans with a plaid shirt make the perfect base. Add a floppy hat, draw on a few stitches with eyeliner or face paint, and tuck some raffia (or yellow paper strips) into the pockets if you have it. Cozy, classic, and perfect for fall festivals too.
🎃 Spooky Snacks to Kick Off October
Kid-friendly, easy, and full of festive flair—these treats are a fun way to bring a little spooky season magic to your table (or party snack bar).
Mummy Oreo Balls
Forget complicated desserts! These Mummy Oreo Balls are all fun, no fuss, and guaranteed to vanish faster than Halloween candy. Just four ingredients, no baking, and they come out looking cute while tasting like little bites of heaven. We made them last year and they were a total hit—easy for us, fun for the kids, and gone in minutes. Definitely a win-win!
Monster Mac and Cheese
Who says Halloween treats have to be sweet? This green “Monster Mac” turns a regular weeknight dinner into a festive, spooky surprise. It’s creamy, colorful, and just plain fun. We’ll admit—we’re still on the fence about candy eyeballs floating in mac and cheese, but hey, Halloween is the season to get a little weird in the kitchen. The kids will love it, and you’ll love how easy it is.
Bloody Red Velvet Popcorn
This one’s new for us this year, but we love the look of it. It’s creepy, it’s crunchy, and it looks like something straight out of a Halloween movie night. And bonus: the recipe link we’re sharing doesn’t just stop at this spooky snack—it’s basically the holy grail of Halloween popcorn ideas. Definitely worth a click to explore all the goodies!
🍿 A Halloween Movie for Kids That’s Not So Scary
Looking for a Halloween movie that brings the Halloween fun without the nightmares? Hotel Transylvania is silly, lighthearted, and just spooky enough to set the mood without crossing into scary territory. Of course, you know your child best: if they’re easily spooked (even by cute animated monsters), you may want to skip this one.
Before you go: Here are 2 ways I can help
1) 1:1 Coaching - Get 50% off 1:1 coaching to finally create a plan that actually works for YOUR highly sensitive child and YOUR specific triggers
2) How to Respond Calmly Your Highly Sensitive Child's Meltdowns - Transform how you respond to meltdowns, repair your relationship with your child, and become the parent you always wanted to be (even if you just yelled 5 minutes ago)
Until next week, sip slowly & savor the calm ☕