Shrub Oak students recently had a fantastic Halloween experience at The Miracle League of Westchester’s Sensory-Friendly Halloween event, A Very Special Halloween, where our students enjoyed a day full of laughter, creativity, and inclusion. Designed especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities, the event provided a supportive environment where everyone could participate comfortably and confidently in the fun and excitement of Halloween.
Our students arrived ready to celebrate and were immediately welcomed by the festive sights and sounds of the day. From colorful decorations to the friendly volunteers in costumes, the atmosphere was lively but never overwhelming. The organizers of the event created a setting that honored the spirit of Halloween while keeping sensory needs in mind.
Trick-or-treating was one of the biggest highlights of the day. Students moved from station to station, collecting candy and small prizes while practicing social interactions like saying “thank you” and greeting others. These moments provided meaningful opportunities for communication and confidence-building in a natural, joyful way.
Another major hit was the Bubble Bus, which created a world of shimmering bubbles that floated across the event grounds. Students chased, popped, and danced among thousands of bubbles, engaging in playful movement and sensory exploration. The bubbles provided a lighthearted and calming activity that appealed to students of all ages and sensory profiles. Whether they were catching the bubbles midair or simply watching them drift away, the experience encouraged curiosity and connection.
Equally engaging were the sensory bins, which offered hands-on exploration through themed textures and materials. Students sifted through bins filled with Halloween-themed items—soft pom-poms, spooky toys, and textured materials—each providing a safe and stimulating way to explore sensory input. These bins are a favorite activity for many of our students, as they allow for tactile learning and can be tailored to individual comfort levels.
Events like this one are important extensions of what we do every day at Shrub Oak International School. By attending community-based activities that prioritize accessibility and inclusion, we help our students generalize the social, emotional, and sensory regulation skills they practice on campus. Each new experience strengthens independence and supports personal growth in real-world settings.
We are deeply grateful to The Miracle League of Westchester for hosting such a thoughtful and inclusive celebration. Their commitment to creating accessible, sensory-friendly spaces mirrors our own philosophy at Shrub Oak—where every student is supported to participate fully, build confidence, and find joy in shared experiences.
Our Halloween trip reminded us that when the environment is welcoming and inclusive, every student can shine. From trick-or-treating to the Bubble Bus, from laughter to learning, it was a day that captured the true spirit of the season—celebrating community, creativity, and the magic of being together.
