SharonKingWorldWide October Is Here With More Abundance and Blessings

Hello My Beautiful Special Needs Community

Happy October! As the leaves change and the air cools, we’re honored to enter this month of awareness, celebration, and community. At SharonKingWorldWide, we believe every month is an opportunity to uplift and support families of children with special needs and October holds special meaning in many ways.

October is rich with observances and awareness causes that align with our mission. Here are several to honor, support, and amplify:

Observance                                                             What It Honors / Why It Matters

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)  - Celebrates the contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce and promotes inclusive employment practices. DOL+2The Arc+2

Learning Disabilities & Dyslexia Awareness Month  - Highlights the experiences of those with learning differences and spreads understanding and resources. AskJAN+3Reading Rockets+3ldaamerica.org+3

ADHD Awareness Month  - Raises awareness about attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and support strategies. 

LDS - Learn. Develop. Succeed.+1

Down Syndrome Awareness Month  - Recognizes and celebrates individuals with Down syndrome, their accomplishments, and and inclusion.

 specialneedsresourceblog.com+2Lurie Children's+2

Spina Bifida Awareness Month  - Focuses on education, support, and advocacy for those living with spina bifida. 

Lurie Children's+1

Invisible Disabilities Week  - Usually falls in mid-October to spotlight conditions that aren’t always visible. 

Microassist+1

World Cerebral Palsy Day  -  Observed October 6 celebrates and supports individuals with cerebral palsy globally. 

Microassist+1

World Sight Day  - Observed in October (often second Thursday) promotes eye health and awareness of visual impairments. 

Microassist+

International Stuttering Awareness Day  - October 22 raises awareness and support around stuttering and speech fluency. 

Wikipedia

Disability History Month  - Throughout October honors history, progress, and stories of disability rights and inclusion. 

specialneedsresourceblog.com+2OrbRom Center+2

We encourage you to mark your calendars, share stories, and engage in awareness and advocacy with us. Whether it’s posting on social media, attending local events, or simply having conversations every voice helps.

Halloween is just around the corner, and we want to make sure every child has a chance to enjoy it safely and joyfully. Below are ways to celebrate and safety reminders tailored for our special needs community.

• Offer non-food treats (stickers, small toys, glow sticks) for kids with dietary restrictions or sensory sensitivities. Michigan Medicine+1
   
• Keep costumes comfortable and non-restrictive. Avoid scratchy fabrics, masks that impair vision, or heavy, tripping-length garments. Marcus+2Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2
   
• Use reflective tape, glow sticks, or LED accessories on costumes and bags so trick-or-treaters are more visible. Active Parenting+3Safe Kids Worldwide+3The Autism Community in Action+3
   
• For children who struggle with transitions or surprises, practice role-play or visual stories ahead of time (e.g. knocking on a door, saying “trick-or-treat,” receiving candy). Marcus+1
   
• Plan a short, familiar route and let your child know what to expect. Little Spurs Autism Centers+2Macaroni Kid Fayetteville+2
   
• Bring along comfort items, noise-reducing headphones, or other sensory aids. Little Spurs Autism Centers+2Macaroni Kid Fayetteville+2
   
• If your house has steps or obstacles, place a chair or ramp to help children with mobility access your door safely. dnmm.org
   

1. Visibility & Lighting
    
   • Use flashlights, glow sticks, or LED wristbands. Safe Kids Worldwide+2Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2
      
   • Apply reflective tape to costumes, bags, or shoes. Safe Kids Worldwide+2The Autism Community in Action+2
      

1. Street & Crossing Safety
    
   • Cross only at corners or crosswalks. Safe Kids Worldwide+1
      
   • Walk (don’t run) and stay on sidewalks when available. Safe Kids Worldwide+2Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2
      
   • Adults should accompany younger children or those needing extra support. Safe Kids Worldwide+2Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2
      

1. Costume Safety
    
   • Costumes should fit well (not drag) and allow easy movement. Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2Active Parenting+2
      
   • Avoid masks that limit vision; prefer non-toxic face paint if possible. Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center+2Marcus+2
      

1. Check Treats Carefully
    
   • Inspect candy wrappers for tampering. Pediatric Center - Pediatric Center
      
   • For children with allergies or dietary restrictions, offer safe alternatives or ask neighbors ahead of time. Active Parenting+2dnmm.org+2
      

1. Sensory & Communication Support
    
   • Allow extra time for responses or pauses at doors. dnmm.org+1
      
   • Use communication cards or wearable ID in case a child is nonverbal or becomes overwhelmed. The Autism Community in Action+1
      

1. Set Boundaries & Plan Exit Strategy
    
   • Agree on a route, timeframe, and meeting place.
      
   • Be ready to end the evening early if it becomes too overwhelming.
      

1. Decorations & Environment
    
   • Avoid loud, flashing, or sudden décor that may cause anxiety. Michigan Medicine+1
      
   • Keep porches and walkways clear of trip hazards.

Closing Thoughts:

Thank you for being part of the SharonKingWorldWide family. We see you, we celebrate you, and we are committed to walking this path with you every day of the year. May your October be filled with awareness, joy, and safe, magical moments.

With gratitude,
Sharon Mae King & the SKWW Team

Founder & CEO of SharonKingWorldWide