DIY Adaptable Ghost: Inclusive Halloween Decor Made Easy

Halloween is one of those holidays that brings out our crafty side as moms. Costumes, pumpkins, spooky snacks sometimes it feels like we need a Pinterest board just to keep up. But what if I told you that you could make a fun, stand-up ghost for your porch or living room using items you likely already have at home or can easily grab from your local dollar store? Even better, it can be inclusive, spread awareness, and get your kids smiling when they see it come to life.

This year, my girls and I made our very own adaptable ghost child as part of our Halloween décor. Here’s how we did it and how you can, too!

The beauty of this project is that it doesn’t take much just simple items that are either tucked away in a closet or can be picked up on your next dollar store run:

• A pool noodle (for the ghost’s body)
  
• A white sheet or large piece of fabric
  
• Poster board, construction paper, or felt (for ghost eyes)
  
• Hot glue or tape
  
• A pair of AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses) if you have them and/or any shoes for the feet
  
• Plastic bags (for stuffing and stability)
  
• Optional: fun accessories like bows, hats, or scarves

Take your pool noodle and fold it into an arched shape. This creates the ghost’s frame and gives that classic “hovering” silhouette.

Here’s where you can add a touch of inclusivity. I used a pair of my daughter’s AFOs, paired with adaptable Nike FlyEase shoes, to make the ghost’s “feet.”  This not only helps the ghost stand upright, but it also spreads a subtle message of disability awareness something that’s close to my heart as a special needs mom. 

Other options if you don’t have AFO braces.

• Orthopedic shoes (if you have an old pair on hand) → Mimics the adaptive look.
  
• Small crutches or a cane (from a thrift store, or even a doll set) → Adds a visible mobility aid.
  
• A tiny wheelchair or walker (think toy or doll size) → Place your ghost sitting in it for a different style of display. 

Stuff the AFOs and or shoes with plastic bags to give them weight and keep them steady.

Drape your white sheet over the pool noodle arch. You’ll instantly see the ghost come to life! Secure the sheet as needed. I used a hair bow to clip the sheet and pierce the pool noodle so it stays in place. 

Then, cut out two big black eyes from poster board, fabric  or felt, and glue or tape them onto your ghost. I used a hot glue gun. 

Since our house is full of girls, we topped ours with a pink polka-dot bow. Accessories are optional, but they definitely add personality.

Set your ghost alongside pumpkins, mums, or other Halloween décor. Not only is it cute and festive, but it’s also a creative way to show that inclusion belongs in every part of life even in holiday traditions.

For me, this little DIY ghost isn’t just about Halloween. It’s about showing my kids and our neighbors that disability can and should be included in everyday spaces. Sometimes inclusion looks like ramps and accessibility plans. And sometimes, it looks like a cheerful ghost with a mobility aid and/or glasses standing proudly on your porch.

Final Thought

Moms, we don’t have to overcomplicate holiday fun. With a little imagination (and a few easy-to-find supplies), we can create seasonal magic while also teaching our kids about creativity, resourcefulness, and inclusion.

Happy Haunting! 👻✨