Letter from the editor
Last Saturday evening, before Terror in the Junkyard opened to the public, the Scullville Volunteer Fire Company once again offered a sensory-friendly hayride for families with disabilities. Hundreds of families climbed aboard wagon after wagon — some with children in wheelchairs, some nonverbal and many with what are often called “invisible disabilities,” such as autism.
You might wonder, what does “sensory-friendly” mean? In simple terms, it’s like turning down the volume — softening the intensity so that everyone can join in. People with autism often experience heightened sensory sensitivity. Sounds that others find exciting, such as the roar of a chainsaw, can be unbearable. Crowds and sudden “pop-outs” might feel overwhelming. Flashing lights can even trigger seizures, which individuals with autism are more prone to experience.
For many families, these factors make traditional haunted attractions impossible to attend. The noise and chaos can cause distress or meltdowns that are deeply misunderstood by others. Yet these same children love Halloween — including the thrill and excitement of the haunted hayride. They want to experience the fun, too.
Twelve years ago, my husband and I found ourselves in that exact situation. Our son, who had autism, wanted to ride through Terror in the Junkyard like other kids his age. We knew he couldn’t — the flashing lights, loud music and jump scares would have been too much. But my husband had an idea: What if the volunteers let him ride through before it opened to the public?
He explained our situation to the Scullville fire chief, who didn’t hesitate to help. He understood the need and immediately offered to make it happen. That single act of kindness sparked something extraordinary — the very first sensory-friendly hayride.
Each year since, the firefighters have continued the tradition, opening their hearts and their haunted trail to hundreds of families who would otherwise not be able to participate. They tone down the noise, eliminate flashing lights and pop-outs, trading screams for smiles. In doing so, they make this Halloween tradition accessible for everyone.
It’s a beautiful reminder that inclusion doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is turning down the volume – and that’s music to everyone‘s ears.
Peace & Love,
Cindy
