26 Best Adaptive and Wheelchair Costumes for Tots and Kids
October 31st is just around the corner, which means Halloween outfit shopping is in full swing. If you’re the parent of a toddler or child who needs a sensory-friendly outfit or a wheelchair costume, you may have had to DIY your kiddo’s costumes in years past. Thankfully, adaptive costumes for kids have come a long way recently. According to Jana Sarno, BCBA, a board-certified behavior analyst and the chief clinical officer of Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers, “adaptive costumes may look different for each person, as each individual has their own specific needs and preferences, and what works for one child may not work for another.” With this in mind, consider your child’s specific needs to find the perfect Halloween costume that’s true to them.
From soft, colorful jumpsuits to too-cool wheelchair covers, you’re sure to find a perfect fit for your little love below. Here, browse our favorite adaptive and wheelchair costumes of the season. Plus, check out expert-backed advice and shopping tips to streamline your search.
We know that finding a Halloween costume that meets your child’s unique needs can be a challenge. That’s why our goal was to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. To create this article:
- We interviewed a board-certified behavior analyst from Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers as well as the president of Disguise, a costume company for all ages and abilities. This way, we know what essential features and safety considerations to keep top of mind when you’re shopping (and trick-or-treating!).
- We considered a list of criteria when sourcing these wheelchair costumes, like material, size options, accessibility features and price point, to name a few.
- To see how these costumes worked for toddlers and kids, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents nationwide looked for in adaptive and wheelchair costumes.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops product reviews.
Adaptive bat costume
Here’s a simple yet spooky costume idea for tots: An adaptive bat jumpsuit. For straightforward dressing and easy access to medical devices, this outfit features a side zipper. Hidden functional openings can also be found within pockets and behind flaps so that they’re equally discreet and convenient. Best of all, this sweet costume is complete with shimmering wings; expect your toddler to “fly” with delight on the big night!
Size range: 2-3T to 5T | Material: 100% polyester
Adaptive Bluey jumpsuit
Is Bluey your little one’s go-to show? Then this adaptive costume for toddlers will be a hit. With this fun blue jumpsuit (complete with pointy ears, of course) they can dress up like their favorite Australian puppy. It’s made from a soft velvet-like material—a perk for those looking for sensory-friendly costumes! Better yet, the outfit features handy openings on the sleeves, torso and pant seams so that it can be easily adapted to meet your toddler’s needs.
Size range: 2T to 4-6 years | Material: 100% polyester
Shark toddler costume
This sensory-friendly shark costume is designed for comfort and accessibility, featuring flat seams, tagless labels and a side zipper with a top snap for easy dressing. The gray jumpsuit includes detachable fin, tail and hood accessories, creating a complete shark look. Thoughtfully crafted, it also features hidden openings for abdominal access, making it suitable for children with medical needs. Ideal for toddlers aged 2 to 3, this costume combines fun and function for a memorable Halloween experience.
Size range: 2-3T to 4T-5T | Material: 100% polyester
Shiny dress-up cape
Instead of a full-bodysuit or wheelchair costume wrap, you could opt for a cape—like this reversible option from Uncommon Goods. It’s sure to delight any dragon-obsessed toddler—and would be perfect for a House of the Dragons-themed family costume. The 2-in-1 metallic design features a hood and a flowing cape with a spiky tail, as well as a heroic knight style on the other side. The open silhouette allows easy access to medical devices or other necessities, and the high-quality design is sure to last for many playtimes to come.
Size range: OS | Material: Polyester/Velcro/polyurethane
PAW Patrol adaptive outfit
If your little one is a fan of PAW Patrol, this adaptive Halloween costume will be a big hit. When wearing the soft velour jumpsuit and matching foam hat, your kiddo will look just like a member of their favorite rescue team. Accessibility highlights include the arm sleeve, abdominal and pant inseam openings, which make getting dressed a breeze.
Size range: 2T to 4-6 | Material: 100% polyester
Unicorn adaptive Halloween costume
Let your little one’s imagination run wild with this adorable plush unicorn Halloween costume from Hyde and EEK at Target. Featuring a horn, wings and a detachable hood, this cute costume will get your little one excited for trick or treating. No scratchy tags here—this costume is crafted with sensory-friendly features. The purple jumpsuit features smooth, flat seams to minimize skin irritation and is designed to withstand active play without causing discomfort. A convenient side zipper allows for quick and easy dressing.
Size range: 2-3T to 4T-5T | Material: 100% polyester
Spooky PJs
Here’s another sweet Halloween costume idea for little ones. This pajama set from Old Navy is sure to be a hit with its spooky, silly skeletons. Thanks to the snug-fit, soft-washed knit material, you can count on your kiddo to be comfy as they enjoy the festivities. While these PJs don’t have adaptive features, the simple design makes them ideal for kids who use wheelchairs. Additionally, the two-piece style provides access to medical devices, if necessary. Complete the look with fun face paint for a costume that’s sure to wow!
Size range: 6-12 months to 6T | Material: 100% cotton
Toy Story PJs
Cozy meets cute in this organic cotton pajama set that doubles as a Toy Story Halloween-ready costume. Made from 100% organically grown cotton, it’s super soft on your little one’s skin and good for the planet. The long-sleeve top and pull-on pants are easy to slip on, making them great for bedtime stories or collecting candy. Available in three playful designs, so your little one can suit up as Woody, Buzz Lightyear or their favorite space ranger in training.
Size range: 6-12 months to 6 Years | Material: 100% organic cotton
Critter hooded jacket
Parents can’t get enough of how cute and cozy this jacket from Old Navy is—and we can totally see why! The sherpa material is perfect for Halloween activities in chillier weather, and the zip-up style means it can be worn over your little one’s favorite outfit, PJs or anything else they’d like to wear. The best part: it comes in six adorable options from unicorn to cheetah and even a dinosaur, so you’re sure to find your toddler’s favorite.
Size range: 12-18 months to 5T | Material: 70% polyester/30% recycled polyester
Wicked Elphaba costume
Turn Halloween into a magical night with this Adaptive Wicked Elphaba Dress! Designed with little ones’ comfort in mind, it features a soft purple dress, a sheer black cape and an iconic crooked witch hat. Accessible openings in the waist and skirt make it easy to change costumes or access medical needs without missing a moment of fun. Perfect for little witches who want to cast spells and steal the spotlight!
Size range: S (4-6 years) to L (10-12 years) | Material: Polyester
Little Mermaid adaptive costume
This glittery Ariel dress is designed to make any child feel like royalty under the sea, with sparkling sequins, shimmery layers and a rhinestone brooch for that magical finishing touch. Adaptive features like a back opening for front-entry dressing, wheelchair-friendly open-back skirt, and discreet front flap for tube access make it as practical as it is enchanting. From the playground to the pumpkin patch, it’s an inclusive costume fit for every little mermaid’s big adventure.
Size range: S to XL | Material: Polyester
Firefighter adaptive Halloween costume
This 9-piece adorable firefighter toddler costume includes a vibrant firefighter-themed jacket, pants, hat, hook-and-loop tape, and two wheel covers, creatively designed to look like yellow fire hoses. The jacket features back hook-and-loop closures, making it easier to dress (especially for children who use wheelchairs or spend a lot of time seated), while still allowing access to the body or any necessary devices.
Size range: 2-3T to 4T- 5T | Material: 100% polyester
Wheelchair-friendly shark costume
This adaptive shark costume kit is full of ocean-inspired fun for Halloween night. It includes a soft shark-hooded cape, detachable fins, a cozy lap blanket and wave-print wheel covers to complete the look. Designed to fit most wheelchairs and secured with easy hook-and-loop closures, it’s comfortable and perfect for ages 3 and up. With thoughtful features and playful details, it’s an inclusive costume that’s ready for every Halloween adventure.
Size range: OS | Material: Polyester
Astronaut costume kit
Blast off! This wheelchair costume for kids can transform any set of wheels into a shiny rocket. The kit includes a spaceship accessory that attaches to the back of the seat and colorful planet wheel covers with hook-and-loop tape for easy closure. To top it all off, it also comes with a soft astronaut helmet for your kiddo to wear. While this costume is only available in one size, the adaptable design can be adjusted to fit most wheelchairs.
Size range: OS | Material: Polyester
Buzz Lightyear wheelchair cover
With this wheelchair costume, your kiddo can reach infinity and beyond. The easy-to-assemble set has two felt pieces and 16 supportive plastic pipes to keep everything in place as your child enjoys the holiday. You’ll also love how the hook-and-loop tabs allow you to adjust it to fit your little one’s chair. Note: These decals shouldn’t be used with electric wheelchairs or baby strollers.
Size range: OS | Material: Felt/plastic
Scooby Doo-themed wheelchair costume
Scooby-Dooby-Doo! This Halloween, transform your little one’s wheelchair with this retro Mystery Machine costume. It comes with two panels (for each side of the seat) which can be connected to the chair via the included stiffeners and easy-install hardware attachments. To ensure you can get multiple uses out of the cover, it’s printed with plastic UV ink that’s weather-resistant. Even better, the cover has been thoughtfully designed to fit all wheelchairs, and helpful set-up instructions can be found on the brand’s website for added peace of mind.
Size range: OS | Material: Plastic
Adaptive Elsa dress
Wheelchair costumes for kids aren’t just limited to seat covers and jumpsuits. Case in point: This adorable princess dress, inspired by Frozen 2. In front, you’ll find a shimmering skirt with glittering details—while at the back, there’s a Velcro closure for simple dressing. Other accessibility-friendly features include the hidden front flap opening for tube access and the satin underskirt complete with comfortable slip-on pant legs.
Size range: 3T-4T to 4-6 | Material: 100% Polyester
Dress up flamingo cape
Next up is this fun flamingo cape from Meri Meri. The wings are made from three layers of tulle and are complete with wristbands so that they stay in place (no matter how giddy your little one is on October 31st). Top it all off with the glittering, embroidered headpiece to transform your little one into their favorite elegant bird in minutes.
Size range: 3-6 years | Material: Velvet/cotton/tulle
Mickey Mouse adaptive outfit
This Disney jumpsuit is a classic and would be perfect for a coordinated family costume! The Mickey Mouse adaptive outfit is made from soft velour to keep your little one comfy as they enjoy the holiday. What’s more, it’s been specifically designed to accommodate a variety of abilities and has various hidden openings to meet your child’s needs.
Size range: 2T to 4-6 | Material: 100% polyester
Adaptive dinosaur outfit
Dino-obsessed kids are sure to have heart eyes for this next wheelchair costume. Accessible features range from the hidden, built-in openings to the user-friendly Velcro closures. The result? A totally roar-some, and adaptive-friendly, costume for kiddos.
Sizes: 4-6 to 10-12 | Material: 100% Polyester
Superhero wheelchair costume
Your little one already is a superhero in your eyes, but with this cool wheelchair costume, they’ll feel even more the part. It resembles Batman’s iconic Batmobile and comes with plastic support rods for added stability. Just keep in mind that this costume should only be used with a manual wheelchair.
Size range: OS | Material: Card backing/felt/plastic
Sesame Street adaptive costume
Sesame Street has been a favorite for generations, which is why we love this adaptive Elmo costume for toddlers. The jumpsuit is the friendly monster’s iconic red color and features a hood with his smiling face. Moreover, it’s been designed with multiple access openings to accommodate IV ports, catheters, or abdominal feeding tubes.
Size range: 3T-4T to 7-8 | Material: 100% polyester
Incredimobile wheelchair costume
Next on our list is a wheelchair cover that resembles the Incredimobile from Incredibles 2. It’s made from stiff felt and comes with supportive plastic piping and self-stick fabric strips to keep everything in place during trick-or-treating. While some assembly is required, helpful instructions are included to ensure setup is a piece of cake. Pair it with a coordinating adaptive costume inspired by the same movie for an unforgettable Halloween outfit. Please note: These decals are specifically designed for manual wheelchairs.
Size range: OS | Material: Felt/plastic
Pokemon adaptive jumpsuit
This soft hooded jumpsuit offers a cozy and inclusive option for Halloween fun. Designed with accessibility in mind, it features abdominal and pant seam openings, making dressing and diaper changes easier. Your Pokémon-loving child will love the Pikachu design, and the comfortable fit ensures your little one can enjoy the festivities with ease.
Size range: 4-6 to 10-12 | Material: 100% Polyester
Adaptive Batman costume
Your little superhero can save the day in comfort with this adaptive Batman costume. Designed with accessibility in mind, the costume features an easy-access flap for dressing, seatless pants and a removable Velcro cape for safety. The lightweight foam mask completes the iconic Batman look without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for trick-or-treating or Halloween parties, this adaptive costume lets every child enjoy superhero adventures with ease.
Size range: S to L | Material: 100% polyester
Adaptive Catboy costume
Your kiddo can get in on the action with this adaptive Catboy PJ Masks Costume. This jumpsuit features multiple access openings, including at the center back, pants inseams and sleeves, all secured with hook-and-loop fasteners, allowing for easy accommodation of medical devices like IV ports or feeding tubes. Printed graphics, such as Catboy’s signature cat head and lightning bolt details, bring the superhero to life. A soft foam mask with an elastic strap adds the finishing touch to your little hero’s look.
Size range: 2T to 4/6 | Material: 100% polyester
This year, you’ll probably be able to find standout, adaptive Halloween outfits at some of your go-to stores and brands. Here, check out the best online retailers for adaptive and wheelchair costumes:
- Target. Sarno recommends checking out Target’s line of adaptive Halloween costumes for several reasons. “They are generally affordable and have different options for customization, as families can choose to solely decorate the wheelchair or incorporate it into the overall design,” she says. On their website, you’ll also find dedicated pages for toddler and kids’ adaptive costumes to make your search even easier.
- Disney. If your kiddo is dreaming of dressing up as one of their favorite movie characters this Halloween, Disney’s online store has got you covered. The retailer offers a range of adaptive and sensory-friendly bodysuits for children, as well as themed wheelchair covers for extra fun.
- HalloweenCostumes.com. This seasonal retailer is another dependable option for adaptive and wheelchair costumes. Whether you’re searching for cool character outfits, fun wheelchair covers or anything in between, you’re sure to find what your little one is looking for here.
So, what makes a Halloween costume adaptive or wheelchair-friendly? Overall, they’re a “thoughtful and practical solution to make dressing up and participating in events more inclusive for individuals with specific needs,” explains Tara Cortner, president and general manager of Disguise. She continues: “It allows them to fully enjoy the festivities while maintaining their comfort and accessibility.” As a result, adaptive costumes are outfitted with accessibility features—such as discreet openings for feeding tubes or medical devices, or silhouettes intended for those who use wheelchairs, aren’t ambulatory or may spend a lot of time seated or lying down. This way, children of all ability levels can enjoy trick-or-treating to the fullest.
As you scroll through adaptive and wheelchair costume ideas for your kiddo, keep the following expert-backed advice in mind:
- Comfortable materials. “Comfort is key,” says Sarno. She recommends opting for lightweight, soft materials that aren’t itchy. In addition to fabric, Cortner reminds parents to “take a look at size charts to ensure the costume fits.”
- Accessible, discreet openings for medical devices. For children who require medical devices, feeding tubes or anything similar, choose an adaptive costume with discreet openings that are easily accessible. You’ll also want to “make sure the openings provide easy access from a seated position and avoid complicated fasteners or buttons,” advises Cortner.
- Easy-on designs. Adaptive costumes are typically designed to ensure dressing and undressing are as seamless as possible. This is done by creating outfits with “arm sleeves and pant inseams that have hook and loop fasteners, ensuring secure and hassle-free opening and closing,” explains Cortner. Likewise, if your child uses a wheelchair or is working on independent dressing, options like these or with back openings could be a good fit, adds Sarno.
- Alternative wheelchair, stroller and wagon covers. If your child isn’t ambulatory or needs frequent breaks, consider a cover for their wheels, rather than a standard costume, recommends Sarno. “Wheelchair covers are made from a stiff felt and come with six support bars, [which] can be inserted and attached to the cover using included fabric strips,” explains Cortner. These designs slot over the sides of the wheelchair, stroller or wagon, offering all the fun of a costume without having to get dressed up yourself.
If you can’t find what your child is looking for or needs in an adaptive costume, don’t feel limited. Sarno reminds parents that costumes can be modified to accommodate various ability levels. For instance, she says, “if your child has difficulties with costumes that have a face mask, consider removing the mask and opt for face paint.” She continues, “if they have difficulty with certain textures, get a costume that is a few sizes larger than their typical size to allow them to wear another layer of softer clothing underneath.” Ultimately, work with your kiddo to find a comfortable costume so that they can focus on having fun this Halloween!
You’ll want to keep your child’s safety top of mind when choosing and while they’re wearing an adaptive or wheelchair costume. If your little one is using a wheelchair cover this Halloween, Cortner advises parents to “secure the product by leaving the wheel on the outside. Anything in the way of the wheel creates a hazard and caution should be taken.” This is especially true of costumes with capes, which shouldn’t cover the handles, and should be an appropriate length so that they don’t get caught in the wheels (and of course, as with any child’s costume, a cape shouldn’t fit tightly around your little one’s neck).
In addition to costume modifications, there are other ways you can make Halloween more comfortable for your child. After all, the holiday is a big change from their normal routine! One way you could do this would be to plan your trick-or-treating route in advance, suggests Sarno. As you do so, think of accessibility to the houses, well-lit paths and other safety concerns, she says. You could even create a fun map for your kiddo to hold on the night. Another idea Sarno offers parents is signage. For instance, “children with autism who are not vocal-verbal can hold up a sign that says “trick or treat” when visiting neighbors,” she says.
About the writer:
Christine Carpenter is a mother and storyteller from New York. She approaches her craft with a goal of making women feel less alone in motherhood. Carpenter is a mama to a beautiful baby boy and a loving and curious toddler. With a rich professional background in product development, she has a keen eye for quality and managing all steps of the product supply chain from inception to delivery. Carpenter’s writing has been published in Motherscope, The Kindred Voice and Mantra Wellness, among others.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Jana Sarno, BCBA, is a board-certified behavior analyst and the chief clinical officer of Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers. She has worked as the vice president of applied behavior analysis at North Shore Pediatric Therapy and as an infant development program administrator at Coyne & Associates Education Corp.
Tara Cortner, is the president and general manager of Disguise, a company specializing in costumes for all ages and abilities.
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