The Blue Bucket & the Teal Pumpkin Project are two completely different initiatives that help people on the Autism Spectrum and people with Food Allergies (or both) have a safer and more inclusive Halloween experience while Trick-or-Treating.
Please print the following image and share it to help spread awareness about these initiatives, and of course, look at the rest of the information we are sharing to understand the differences between the “Blue Bucket” and the “Teal Pumpkin Project”.
The Blue Bucket
Inspired by the “Teal Pumpkin Project”, on October 25th, 2018, a Facebook user (Alicia Plumer) shared a post with a blue jack-o-Lantern image advertising to her neighbors that her son, a 21-year-old on the Autism Spectrum, was going Treat-or-Tricking because he loves Halloween. In order to keep her son’s spirit alive and happy, she asked for their support by not only spreading awareness but also by sharing a piece of candy when they see him and others with a blue bucket!
That post went viral, and many people were in support of people on the spectrum carrying the “Blue Buckets” for Trick-or-Treating. The word even got out to some news outlets that began reporting this initiative as fact.
It is important to note that while many Autism support groups utilize the color blue, this color is not necessarily the official representative color of all Autism-related groups. However, many groups take advantage of the widespread recognition movements like “Blue Bucket”, the “Light it Up Blue” and even the “Blue Puzzle” have received, and are using the blue color to spark attention. This initiative is no different. It is important to take advantage of the awareness that this color has generated, and support initiatives like the “Blue Bucket” to keep increasing awareness.
Since the “Blue Bucket” project is still relatively new, people on the Autism Spectrum going Trick-or-Treating could also wear badges or signs to inform their neighbors about their specific situation. This provides members of their community with the appropriate knowledge to be able to respond in a more comprehensive way.
The Teal Pumpkin Project
The following information can be found at the Food Allergy webpage:
People that put a teal pumpkin on their doorstep signify that they have non-food treats available, such as glow sticks or small toys. This simple act promotes inclusion for trick-or-treaters with food allergies or other conditions.
Provide non-food treats for trick-or-treaters
Place a teal pumpkin in front of your home to indicate to people passing by that you have non-food treats available
Add your home to the Teal Pumpkin Project map
Spread the word! Share the Teal Pumpkin Project with your friends and family!
Since this information can be read online anywhere in the world, I encourage you to visit The St. Anthony School Webpage: https://www.thestanthonyschool.com and Social Media: Facebook, Instagram & YouTube Channel for more information about Autism and other Neurological Disorders.
About the Author:
Alicia MC is a Writer, a Neurodiversity Advocate, and a Corporate and Social Media Marketing Specialist eager to share her experience & knowledge to help others.