How to: Fall Fun with Kids Fighting Cancer
This time of year is full of fun activities that create lasting memories for kids and families. But for families fighting pediatric cancer, we know that some classic fall traditions aren’t always a good fit. Here are a few ways to still incorporate fall fun into your October plans—no matter what your family’s circumstances are.
Pumpkin Picking
A classic October tradition is visiting a pumpkin patch to choose pumpkins together. But for families fighting pediatric cancer, that environment can bring challenges — from germ exposure in large crowds, to dust that may irritate allergies or breathing, to the simple difficulty of leaving home or the hospital.
Here are some alternative ideas that still bring seasonal fun and create unforgettable memories:
A Pumpkin Goblin
Ask a “pumpkin goblin”—a friend or family member—to surprise your kiddos by anonymously dropping off pumpkins at your front door! Celebrate the surprise and enjoy carving, painting or even smashing your gifted pumpkins.
If your family is spending time in the hospital, a friend could bring smaller pie pumpkins and washable paints for your family to decorate together.
Backyard Pumpkin Patch
Gather a few pumpkins from a local farm stand or grocery store and line them up in your backyard. Let your kiddos “pick” their pumpkin—and maybe even give it a name! Add festive decorations or a photo booth to make it extra special.
Halloween Fun
We know traditional trick-or-treating isn’t always an option for kids in active treatment, but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the fun!
Hospital Trick-or-Treating
If your family is in the hospital over Halloween, ask your Child Life Specialist or Social Worker if your hospital hosts hallway trick-or-treating.
If not, invite your kiddo’s friends or family to bring candy or small treats to the hospital—or leave goodies at your house while they trick-or-treat in your neighborhood.
Candy Hunt
If your kiddos can’t go out, turn your home or yard into a candy hunt! Hide treats around the house and let them dress up and search for them. You can even create a scavenger hunt with clues to make it more exciting.
Not-So-Haunted House Halloween
Create an unforgettable Halloween experience at home by setting up “trick-or-treat” stations in different rooms, each with a small treat or toy. End the night with a spooky movie and a cozy living room sleepover.
Non-Edible Treats
For kiddos who may not be able to eat candy, here are some fun alternatives:
- Halloween sticker packs
- Small toys like pop-its or slime
- Halloween-themed coloring sheets or crafts
- Mini glow sticks or light-up necklaces
- Bubbles
- Sidewalk chalk
- Mini Play-Doh containers
It Takes a Village
What to Say When People Ask How They Can Help This Halloween Season
When people in your community offer to support your family or include your kiddo in fall festivities, here are some helpful ways to respond:
Practical Help for You, Mama or Papa Bear
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need—people who offer to help genuinely want to support you, but often just need a little direction.
Suggestions could include picking up siblings from school or after school activities, dropping off a grocery order, mowing the lawn or helping with schoolwork your child may miss.
Halloween Support
If someone wants to do something special, suggest they put together a Boo Basket filled with seasonal treats for your kiddo—whether they’re at home or in the hospital. Offer a few ideas of what your child likes (favorite snacks, toys or activities) to make it extra meaningful.
If there’s one thing we believe here at Roc Solid, it’s that every kid deserves the chance to play. We hope these ideas help your family find new ways to keep playing and making memories this fall as you continue to fight pediatric cancer.
We’re cheering you on!
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If you or a family you know is fighting pediatric cancer and interested in receiving a Roc Solid Ready Bag or play structure, let us know by clicking here.
