Why some of our kids are drawn to horror

With Halloween just around the corner, it’s felt like the perfect time to talk about something I’ve noticed in our house lately.

Halloween has always been a big favourite here – the costumes, the decorations, the excitement of it all – but this year there’s been a real fascination with the darker side. Horror-themed Roblox games, spooky Minecraft mods… all the things that make me hover nearby, quietly checking what’s age-appropriate and making sure everything feels safe while still allowing that curiosity to unfold.

It got me thinking – why are some of our children so drawn to horror?

I came across a brilliant post by Kristy Forbes, who wrote beautifully about why many PDA and autistic children are drawn to villains, anti-heroes, and darker themes. She talks about how so many of our children see parts of themselves reflected in those misunderstood characters – the ones who don’t quite fit the mould, who are unapologetically themselves.

And when you think about it, it makes sense.

For some of our children, horror can be a safe, controlled way to explore big emotions – fear, power, danger, even identity – while still knowing they can press pause or stop at any time. It’s a way of being in control of what’s scary, and for children who often feel out of control in other parts of their lives, that can be incredibly grounding.

Others might love the adrenaline rush, the curiosity about the unknown, or simply the creativity behind it all. And sometimes, these darker themes can even be a way of processing real-world fears or anxiety – transforming them into something they can see, name, and manage.

Of course, context matters. As parents we keep an eye on what’s appropriate, talk about what they’re watching or playing, and stay curious rather than panicking. I loved Kristy’s reminder that shaming or shutting down their interests can backfire – it can create secrecy and shame where what’s really needed is understanding and connection.

So if your child also lights up at spooky season, you’re not alone. There’s often far more meaning beneath it than meets the eye.

We’re heading off for half-term to visit family, which means getting back on an airplane for the second time ever – fingers crossed it all goes smoothly! We’ll be back just in time for Halloween, and I have a feeling there’ll still be plenty of enthusiasm for dressing up and trick-or-treating.

Do your children enjoy dressing up, or is it more of a sensory challenge in your house? I’d love to know.