Now in its third year, the Spooky Science Spectacular is “the most well-received program we’ve done,” says Alex Eilers, Manager of Education for the Pink Palace Family of Museums. Though only four families attended the event its first year, everyone involved was determined that it return the following year after seeing the effect it had on those four families in attendance. Alex recalls a mother’s tear-filled statement that it was the first time her autistic child had ever been part of a Halloween-themed party or event.

So far this year, 130 families have signed up. It is a success Alex attributes to the museum’s staff and volunteers and to the efforts of ARMS, led by its president Tara Mohundro.
For children on the autism spectrum, reactions to the sights and sounds traditionally part of Halloween can vary greatly and because their communication and interaction with others is affected by the developmental disability, it is sometimes difficult to construct a setting in which everyone feels comfortable. Tara worked closely with museum staff to create activity stations, some manned and some self-guided, that would appeal to just about every child who participated. In fact, she had lots of help from her autistic son who, through verbal input and non-verbal reactions, allowed for the making of a welcoming and magnetic space, complete with quiet corners for those who might need them.