Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for children – costumes, candy, and staying up past bedtime! But for children with autism, the social demands of trick-or-treating can turn excitement into anxiety.
At Committed to Kids ABA, we’ve worked with hundreds of families to make Halloween a positive experience. One of our most effective strategies? Script cards – simple visual supports that show children exactly what to say at each door.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what script cards are, why they work, how to use them, and provide free downloadable templates to get you started!
What Are Halloween Script Cards?
Script cards (also called cue cards or visual scripts) are visual supports that provide clear, specific language prompts for social situations. For Halloween, they typically show short phrases like:
- “Trick or treat!”
- “Thank you!”
- “Happy Halloween!”
The cards can include just words, pictures and words, or even symbols – whatever works best for your child’s communication style and level.
Think of them as social “cheat sheets.” They eliminate the uncertainty of what to say, when to say it, and how to respond – making trick-or-treating more predictable and less stressful.
Why Script Cards Work: The Science Behind the Strategy
As ABA therapy providers, we don’t just use strategies because they seem like a good idea – we use evidence-based interventions that research has proven effective. Script cards align with several well-established ABA principles:
1. Visual Supports Enhance Communication
Many children with autism are visual learners. They process information seen more effectively than information heard. Script cards provide a concrete, visual reference that stays consistent, unlike verbal prompts which disappear as soon as they’re spoken.
Research has consistently shown that visual supports improve communication, reduce anxiety, and support independence for individuals with autism (Bondy & Frost, 1994; Krantz & McClannahan, 1993).
2. Prompting Supports Skill Acquisition
In ABA, we use prompts to help children successfully perform tasks they’re still learning. Script cards are a form of visual prompting – they cue the child to use appropriate social language without requiring adult verbal prompts.
The goal is eventually to fade these prompts as the child internalizes the scripts and uses them naturally. But during the learning phase, prompts are essential for success.
3. Predictability Reduces Anxiety
Anxiety often stems from uncertainty. When children don’t know what’s expected or what to do, they can become overwhelmed. Script cards provide clear expectations, making the social interaction predictable and manageable.
For children with autism who thrive on routine and predictability, this reduction in uncertainty can be game-changing.
4. Success Builds Confidence
When children have successful social interactions – when they say “trick or treat,” receive candy, say “thank you,” and the interaction ends positively – it builds their confidence and motivation to try again.
Script cards increase the likelihood of these successful interactions, creating a positive feedback loop that encourages continued social engagement.
The Benefits of Using Script Cards for Halloween
Reduces Social Anxiety
Trick-or-treating requires initiating interactions with strangers – something that can be incredibly anxiety-provoking. Script cards remove the pressure of having to spontaneously generate appropriate phrases, allowing kids to focus on the fun aspects of Halloween.
Promotes Independence
Instead of relying on a parent to verbally prompt them at every house (“Say trick or treat!”), children can reference their own script card and self-prompt. This increases independence and gives children more control over their participation.
Supports Communication Development
Script cards aren’t crutches that prevent communication development – they’re bridges that support it. By repeatedly using these phrases in context, many children begin to internalize them and eventually use them without the visual support.
Makes Halloween More Enjoyable
When the stress of social expectations is reduced, children can actually enjoy Halloween! They can focus on their costume, the excitement of getting candy, and the fun of being out in their neighborhood – rather than worrying about what to say.
Empowers Parents
Parents often feel they need to constantly direct and support their child during trick-or-treating. Script cards reduce this burden and allow parents to step back a bit, giving their child more independence while still providing necessary support.
What Phrases to Include on Your Script Cards
Essential Scripts (Start Here)
If you’re new to script cards, begin with these three basic phrases:
1. “Trick or treat!” This is the initiating phrase used when approaching a house. It signals to the homeowner that the child is participating in trick-or-treating.
2. “Thank you!” Used after receiving candy. This is an important social courtesy that shows appreciation.
3. “Happy Halloween!” An optional closing phrase that can be used as the child leaves. Some children like having an ending phrase to signal the interaction is complete.
Additional Helpful Scripts
As your child becomes comfortable with the basics, you can add more scripts to support other situations:
“No thank you” For politely declining candy they don’t like or can’t have (due to allergies). This teaches self-advocacy and boundary-setting.
“Can I have _____?” For situations where they’re offered a choice of candy. Fill in the blank with the item they want.
“That’s too scary” For expressing discomfort with scary decorations or Halloween displays. This helps children communicate their sensory or emotional needs.
“I need a break” For self-advocating when they’re feeling overwhelmed and need to step away or head home.
“You’re welcome” For responding if the homeowner says “thank you” to them.
“Nice costume!” For reciprocal conversation if the homeowner comments on their costume.
Customizing Scripts
Feel free to adapt these scripts to match:
- Your child’s current language level (simplified or more complex)
- Your regional expressions (“Happy Halloween” vs. “Have a good night”)
- Your child’s preferences (some kids prefer “Thanks!” over “Thank you!”)
The best scripts are the ones your child will actually use!
How to Create Effective Script Cards
Materials Needed
- Cardstock or heavy paper (for durability)
- Printer or markers
- Laminator or clear contact paper (optional but recommended)
- Hole punch and lanyard, or clips/pins to attach to costume
Design Considerations
1. Size Cards should be large enough to read easily but small enough to be portable. We recommend 3×5 inches or 4×6 inches – about the size of an index card.
2. Font Use a clear, simple font. Avoid decorative or script fonts that might be hard to read. If your child is pre-literate, use large, bold letters.
3. Visual Supports Include pictures or icons alongside the words:
- A jack-o’-lantern with “Trick or treat!”
- A candy icon with “Thank you!”
- A smiling face with “Happy Halloween!”
Images help pre-readers and visual learners. Even children who can read often benefit from the additional visual cue.
4. Color Coding Consider using different colored cards for different types of phrases:
- Orange for greetings (“Trick or treat!”)
- Purple for gratitude (“Thank you!”)
- Green for choices (“Can I have _____?”)
This can help children quickly identify which card they need.
5. Keep It Simple Don’t overcrowd the card. One clear phrase per card is usually best. Too much information can be overwhelming and defeat the purpose.
Durability
Halloween happens at night, sometimes in less-than-ideal weather. Make your cards durable:
- Laminate them at home or at an office supply store
- Use clear contact paper as a budget alternative to lamination
- Consider using velcro strips on the back to attach cards to a costume or trick-or-treat bag
- Punch a hole and attach to a lanyard so cards are always accessible
How to Introduce and Use Script Cards
2-3 Weeks Before Halloween: Introduction Phase
Don’t wait until Halloween night to introduce script cards! Give your child time to become familiar with them.
Step 1: Introduce the Cards Show your child the cards and explain what they’re for: “These cards help you know what to say when we go trick-or-treating!”
Step 2: Practice the Phrases Practice saying each phrase together. You can make it fun:
- Say them in silly voices
- Say them while looking in a mirror
- Practice while in costume
Step 3: Role-Play at Home Set up a simple role-play scenario:
- One person pretends to be the trick-or-treater
- Another person is the homeowner
- Practice the full sequence: approach, “trick or treat,” accept candy, “thank you,” walk away
Make it fun, not stressful! The goal is familiarity, not perfection.
1 Week Before Halloween: Practice in Natural Settings
Take the practice outside the home:
- Practice at a friendly neighbor’s house
- Practice at grandparents’ house
- Practice at the homes of understanding friends
Real-world practice is invaluable. It helps your child generalize the skill from home role-play to actual trick-or-treating.
Halloween Day: Final Preparation
Morning Prep:
- Review the cards one more time
- Let your child help prepare them (putting them on a lanyard, choosing which cards to bring)
- Talk through the plan for the evening
Right Before Trick-or-Treating:
- Practice once more in the car or before leaving home
- Remind your child where the cards are and how to use them
- Set expectations: “You can use your card at each house. I’ll help you if you need me!”
During Trick-or-Treating: How to Support Your Child
Before Approaching a House: Point to or gently tap the “Trick or treat!” card as a reminder. Let your child hold the card or keep it visible.
At the Door: Give your child time to look at the card and say the phrase. Resist the urge to immediately prompt verbally – wait 5-10 seconds. Many children just need processing time.
If They Don’t Respond:
- Gently point to the card again
- If needed, model the phrase quietly: “You can say trick or treat”
- If they still don’t respond, that’s okay! You can say it together or accept that this house didn’t work out and try the next one
After Receiving Candy: Point to the “Thank you!” card. Again, give processing time before providing additional prompts.
Celebrate Success: After each interaction, provide positive reinforcement:
- “Great job using your card!”
- “I liked how you said thank you!”
- A high five or thumbs up
What If It’s Not Working?
If your child is resistant to using the cards or the strategy isn’t helping:
Don’t force it. The goal is reducing stress, not adding it. If cards aren’t working, it’s okay to try a different approach or simply support your child verbally.
Assess the environment. Sometimes the issue isn’t the cards – it’s sensory overload, too many people, scary decorations, or fatigue. Address the actual problem.
Simplify. Maybe three scripts are too many. Try starting with just one: “Trick or treat!”
Try next year. Some children need more development time before they’re ready for script cards. That’s perfectly okay!
Beyond Halloween: Using Script Cards Year-Round
Script cards aren’t just for Halloween! Once you’ve seen how effective they can be, consider using them for other social situations:
Other Holiday Applications
- Thanksgiving: “Thank you for the food,” “This is delicious,” “May I be excused?”
- Christmas/Holidays: “Thank you for the gift,” “I love it,” “Happy Holidays”
- Birthday Parties: “Happy birthday,” “Thank you for inviting me,” “I had fun”
Everyday Social Situations
- Restaurant: “Can I have _____?” “Thank you,” “Excuse me”
- Store: “Thank you,” “No thank you,” “I need help”
- Doctor’s Office: “Hello,” “I don’t feel well,” “It hurts here”
- School: “Can I play?” “Can you help me?” “Thank you”
Script Fading
As your child becomes more comfortable with scripts, you can begin to fade them:
- Full script: “Trick or treat!”
- Partial script: “Trick or…”
- Initial letter: “T…”
- No script: Child initiates independently
This gradual fading helps transition from supported to independent communication.
Tips for Success: What Experienced Families Have Learned
Start Small
Your first year with script cards, keep expectations modest. Success might look like using one card at three houses. That’s still progress!
Make Them Accessible
Cards don’t help if your child can’t reach them. Lanyards, clips on costumes, or a wristband with a card pocket all work well.
Bring Backup
Bring extra cards in case one gets lost, dropped, or wet. Having backups reduces stress for everyone.
Consider Siblings
Even neurotypical siblings sometimes appreciate having a script card! It can make the strategy feel more inclusive and less “different.”
Know When to Go Home
Script cards help, but they’re not magic. If your child is overwhelmed, it’s okay to cut trick-or-treating short. A positive shorter experience beats a stressful longer one.
Document Success
Take photos or videos of your child successfully using their script cards. This creates a positive memory and gives you material to review before next Halloween!
Be Patient with Others
Some homeowners might not understand why your child is reading from a card or taking longer to respond. A quick “He’s using a communication tool” can help, but you don’t owe anyone an explanation.
Creating an Autism-Friendly Trick-or-Treating Experience
Script cards are just one tool in creating a positive Halloween. Here are other strategies to consider:
Route Planning
- Choose a familiar neighborhood
- Map out houses of friends and understanding neighbors
- Keep the route short – quality over quantity!
- Avoid houses with intense decorations if your child is sensitive
Timing
- Go earlier in the evening when it’s less crowded
- Some communities offer sensory-friendly trick-or-treating hours (4-6 PM)
- Consider going the day before or after Halloween to less crowded areas
Sensory Considerations
- Bring noise-canceling headphones
- Pack a small sensory toy or fidget
- Dress in comfortable costumes (avoid itchy, tight, or overly hot costumes)
- Bring a familiar comfort item
Communication with Neighbors
Consider participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project – placing a teal pumpkin on your porch signals you have non-food treats available. Also, you might let neighbors know your child uses script cards so they can be patient.
Alternative Celebrations
If traditional trick-or-treating isn’t a good fit, consider:
- Trunk-or-treat events (more controlled environment)
- Trick-or-treating at family members’ homes only
- A Halloween party at home with close friends
- A Halloween scavenger hunt in your own house or yard
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Won’t script cards prevent my child from learning to communicate naturally?
A: No! Research shows that visual supports actually facilitate language development. Script cards provide a model that children can learn from and eventually internalize. Many children who start with script cards eventually use the phrases spontaneously without the visual support.
Q: My child is nonverbal. Will script cards work for them?
A: Yes! Script cards can be adapted for nonverbal children. They can:
- Point to the card to indicate what they want to communicate
- Hand the card to the homeowner
- Use picture-only cards
- Use the cards in conjunction with AAC devices
Q: What if my child can already say these phrases? Are script cards still helpful?
A: Possibly! Some children can say phrases in familiar, low-stress situations but struggle in novel or high-pressure situations like trick-or-treating. Script cards can provide support and reduce anxiety even for children with strong verbal skills.
Q: How many houses should we visit?
A: Quality over quantity! For a first-time trick-or-treater or a child new to script cards, even 3-5 houses is a success. You can gradually increase the number each year as your child becomes more comfortable.
Q: What if my child refuses to use the cards?
A: That’s okay! You can’t force tool use. If your child resists, consider:
- Is the card too childish/babyish for their age? Maybe redesign it.
- Is it physically awkward to hold? Try a different attachment method.
- Are they just not ready? That’s okay – try again next year.
Q: Should I verbally prompt my child in addition to the cards?
A: Initially, yes, but try to fade verbal prompts over time. The goal is for the visual card to be the prompt, not your voice. Point to the card rather than saying “Say trick or treat.”
Download Your FREE Halloween Script Cards
At Committed to Kids ABA, we believe all families should have access to evidence-based tools that support their children. That’s why we’re offering FREE downloadable Halloween script cards on our website.
What’s Included: ✓ Multiple phrase options ✓ Picture + word combinations ✓ Various design themes ✓ Printing and lamination instructions ✓ Tips for use
👉 Visit here to download your free set today!
How Committed to Kids ABA Can Help
If you’re looking for additional support in helping your child develop communication and social skills, Committed to Kids ABA offers comprehensive, individualized ABA therapy services.
Our services include:
- One-on-one ABA therapy tailored to your child’s unique needs and goals
- Social skills groups where children practice interactions in a supportive environment
- Parent training and coaching so you can support your child’s development at home
- Community-based instruction including practice with real-world skills like trick-or-treating
- School consultation and support
We work with children across the spectrum, from those just beginning to communicate to those working on complex social interactions. Our goal is to help every child reach their full potential and participate meaningfully in their community.
Interested in learning more? Contact us at 267-277-2999 or visit committedtokidsaba.com to learn more.
Final Thoughts: Making Halloween Magical for Every Child
Halloween should be a time of joy, excitement, and fun for all children – including those with autism. With thoughtful preparation and the right tools, children who might otherwise struggle with trick-or-treating can successfully participate and create wonderful memories.
Script cards are a simple but powerful strategy. They reduce anxiety, support communication, build confidence, and promote independence. But more than that, they send a message to your child: You can do this. We believe in you. We’re here to support you.
Whether this is your child’s first Halloween trick-or-treating or their tenth, whether they’re verbal or nonverbal, whether they visit 3 houses or 30 – every successful interaction is a victory worth celebrating.
So download those script cards, practice those phrases, and get ready for a wonderful Halloween. We’re cheering for you and your family!
Happy Halloween from all of us at Committed to Kids ABA! 🎃💙
Have questions about script cards or ABA therapy? Drop them in the comments below or contact us directly. We’re here to help!