Between the excitement of dressing up in costume and the thrill of trick-or-treating, Halloween is a magical night children look forward to all year. Whether you’re helping your child and their friends make the neighborhood rounds or planning a night of spooky fun with the family, here’s a few handy tips that will ensure this year’s Halloween is safe and fun for everyone.
Picking out a Halloween costume is a childhood rite-of-passage, but whether you go the homemade route or not, there are a few easy steps you can take to make a costume kid-friendly. Face paint is a great alternative to masks because they can make it difficult for your child to see properly, so unleash your inner artist and create a one-of-a-kind design. When it comes to clothing, too-long hems can cause your child to trip and fall, so have your little one try the costume ahead of time and trim as necessary. Furthermore, if your child is planning to go out after dark, attach some reflective tape to their costume or have them carry a flashlight so they’ll be visible to drivers.
So, everyone is dressed up and ready to go trick-or-treating. Now it’s time to lay some ground rules, such as “No talking to strangers.” Make sure to stay on sidewalks and hold your child’s hand while they look both ways before crossing the street. Younger kids may become overexcited and want to eat their candy right away, but it’s important to wait until everyone is home so you can properly inspect their sweets for choking hazards or signs of tampering. And if you see any scary clowns…walk the other way!
If you decide to skip the trick-or-treating this Halloween and celebrate at home, there are a few simple things to keep in mind. Make sure all candles are on sturdy surfaces away from curtains and other flammable materials, and never leave a candle burning unattended or within reach of children and pets. Finally, if you’re expecting trick-or-treaters, make sure your walkway is well-lit and free of clutter.
Kids love Halloween because it’s a chance for them to dress up and explore their imagination. With a little advance planning, Halloween safety won’t get in the way of the spookiest – and most fun – night of the year.
