10 Adaptive Halloween Costumes for Kids
Adaptive Halloween costumes make dress up more inclusive by considering and designing for mobility aids, tube access, sensory processing disorders and more. Adaptive costume design elements can include open-backed costumes or self-stick fabric for easier dressing, a lack of tags and softer materials, flap openings for easy tube access, and longer lengths.
An increasing number of retailers (finally) understand the importance of universal design leading to more adaptive Halloween costume offerings. On top of that, we have crafty and creative DIYers who produce some of the best costumes each year. Below you will find our ten favorite adaptive costumes to buy or DIY this Halloween.
The first four spots on this list belong to Disney. Their senior manager of product design, Caroline Sanchez, has thoughtfully designed adaptive costumes and wheelchair covers that are both festive and functional. You can read about her process here.
This beautiful mermaid costume opens at the back with self-stick fabric closure, the skirt back is open for wheelchair-friendly wear, there is a flap opening at the center-front for easy tube access, and the dress is ankle-length to accommodate seated kiddos.
Ariel’s wheelchair wrap is sold separately and for use on a manual, standard wheelchair with 24” wheels.
This four-piece superhero outfit opens in the back with self-stick fabric closure, has a flap opening at center front for easy tube access, opens at the rear for wheelchair friendly wear, is longer to accommodate seated wearers and is a stretchy fabric.
The Incredimobile Wheelchair Cover Set is sold separately and is meant for standard, non-battery powered wheelchairs with 24” wheels.
Similar to the Ariel costume, the adaptive Cinderella costume opens in back with self-stick fabric closure, the skirt back is completely open for wheelchair-friendly wear, there is a flap opening at center front for easy tube access, the skirt is ankle length, the shoulder straps stretch and the details are beautiful.
Cinderella Coach Wheelchair Cover Set is sold separately and for use on a non-battery powered, standard wheelchair with 24” wheels.
This young cowboy costume features an opening at center front for easy tube access, self-stick fabric closure shirt, a dialysis pouch and tube opening on the pants, an elastic waistband, and self-stick fabric closure inseams.
Target was another large retailer at the forefront of inclusive Halloween options, and we think these adaptive costumes available through their Hyde & EEK! Boutique are excellent options for hero loving or whimsical kiddos.
5. Toddler Adaptive Plush Unicorn Halloween Costume Jumpsuit
This costume was designed with discreet functional openings to allow tubing, small object, and device access, a side zipper opening to provide easier access, and is made from soft, lightweight fabric.
6. Kids' Adaptive Fire Truck Halloween Costume
This nine-piece costume includes wheelchair wheel covers (fits 14” diameter wheels), side covers, back covers, and hook-and-loop tape, and includes a firefighter’s hat.
We love a good DIY costume, and are always so impressed by the creativity, talent, and hard work that bring these ideas to life. We can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with this year, and here are two of our favorites for inspiration.
7. DIY Adaptive Superman Costume
Something about this costume makes me smile every time I see it. If that’s not the best Superman costume, I don't know what is!
If you’ve got two two-liters, spray paint, tissue paper and flair for creativity, this astronaut walker costume is a great Halloween option for you!
Dressing up for Halloween can be tricky for kiddos with sensory processing disorders. That’s why our two favorite costume options utilize standard, comfortable clothing to get in the spirit.
Pajamas are a comfortable and familiar way for kiddos with sensory processing disorders to join in the Halloween festivities. Target has many pajama options that can double as Halloween attire.
Similar to comfy pajamas, a simple character t-shirt can be a great way for a kiddo with a sensory processing disorder to enjoy the holiday spirit. Old Navy has a number of great options that will feel comfortable and familiar.
Additional Adaptive Costume Resources
While we’ve highlighted our favorite adaptive costumes for Halloween, we also want to provide additional resources to make your adaptive Halloween shopping experience a breeze. Here is a list of stores offering adaptive costume options this Halloween:
Disguise Adaptive Halloween Costumes (found on Amazon)
Disguise seems to be the main costume provider for many of these retailers, so I’ve listed them first and selection may become repetitive.
And in the event that we can save you time, here’s a look at all of the wheelchair covers currently offered by Disney:
Let us know what your favorite costumes are in the comments below!
