It’s that (candy) time of year again. trick-or-treating is around the corner, and while we’re all excited for costumes, candy, and creepy fun, it’s also a great time to explore emotions, practice social skills, and overcome fears through play. Here at Kids Reconnect we love combining Halloween with fun activities that help children grow their emotional and social skills (their Superpowers!)

Imagination, fun, and play are not just for kids. At KidsReconnect we use our imagination year-round, in many creative ways — kids, teens, and grown-up kids-at-heart alike.

Encouragement builds courage.

During a play therapy session, we encourage your child to pick a costume that makes them feel strong or brave. This is a great way to build confidence. Whether they decide to be a Superhero, a singing superstar, a fierce tiger, or a magical fairy, we play and talk about how different characters handle challenges.

Some children might be experiencing social anxiety or they  might feel nervous in new environments. Dressing up in costumes can help them feel more comfortable as they experience taking on different identities. Role-playing gives kids a chance to express emotions they might otherwise keep hidden. During play therapy, we often use costumes to allow kids to explore parts of themselves they might not yet feel confident showing in daily life.

Halloween can be a good time to gently talk to your child about what scares them and use this as an opportunity to discuss ways to face everyday fears.

In play therapy, we therapists often help kids to explore and conquer fears using imagination. In EmPOWERland at Kids Reconnect, during child therapy sessions we sometimes practice “scary” situations in a safe, playful way, like making movies or telling silly ghost stories.

As their parent, you too can also use Halloween to ask your child, “What would make you feel better in a scary situation?” Listen to their scary or tricky feelings with an open heart. Respond with validation, non-judgemental curiosity, and empathy, then help them find creative ways to feel better.

Halloween is the the perfect opportunity to nurture your child’s emotional well-being and social skills while enjoying some cool, ghoulish fun together. We hope this Halloween brings you and your little one lots of smiles, creativity, and playful moments — even a little candy, if you like sweet treats.