Boy's Yard Drawns Crowd

Ryan McCarron’s front yard in Tinley Park has evolved from a single animatronic figure into a major Halloween destination for the southwest suburbs.

The display, known as Ryan’s Scaregrounds, now features nearly 200 decorations, animatronics, and jump scares. Visitors are stopping by throughout the season to see the sprawling attraction.

The project began last year when 6-year-old Ryan became fascinated by a werewolf decoration named Tommy. His father, Patrick McCarron, said the item was originally sold at Home Depot but had become difficult to find.

Patrick McCarron tracked down a copy of the werewolf, believing it would be the only item in the family’s collection. That proved wrong. One decoration led to another, and the yard gradually filled with skeletons, clowns, and ghouls.

Ryan has a rare chromosome disorder that previously affected his ability to walk and talk. Patrick McCarron said the display has become a way for his son to connect with others.

"With Ryan's special needs he found something that he really loved. And whenever he loved something, I do, too," Patrick McCarron said.

Visitors often meet Ryan in person. He greets them and points out his favorite decorations. One visitor, Paul Siwinski, noted the variety of the display.

"It seems like there's always something new to look at every time we come by," Paul Siwinski said.

Patrick McCarron said Ryan’s personality has changed as the project grew.

"He's really opened up. You know, he's really transformed into someone who communicates well with people and wants to see people," Patrick McCarron said.

The family has partnered with the Tinley Park Police to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois. They have collected nearly $2,500 so far this year.

Patrick McCarron recalled a recent comment from his son about the attention the yard has received. "He told me the other night, he said, 'Dad, I'm famous,'" Patrick McCarron said.