Soon those superheroes, witches and movie characters will be trotting up the front walks of the neighborhood to ring doorbells for the goodies within on Halloween. While I suspect that it is far more likely children will get the treat than try a trick, there are some things you can do this year (and every year) to make the holiday a safe and enjoyable one.
Costumes
For most children, costumes are a chance for joyful creativity and play. Have fun with your expressions but keep some key ideas in mind as you craft your own or grab something at the pop-up store. Check labels, looking for nontoxic makeup (keep it out of those eyes — it stings!) and materials that are clearly noted to be nonflammable.
Materials for those getups should allow the child to see clearly when crossing streets or navigating dark stairs — and to be seen. Try to find a way to add light to your costumes, such as putting reflective material on a treat bag or costume, having a glow stick party or simply walking the neighborhood with a flashlight. Thus equipped, children are ready to go haunting.
Trick-or-Treating
For younger children, going out in the early evening may be the right move because it prevents the disruption (and chaos) of a missed bedtime. Alternatively, check your local calendar, as many communities are moving toward child-friendly trick-or-treats (and trunk-or-treats) in some streets or business districts. For children of early elementary school age and younger, chaperoning is a must. Depending on your children’s ages and stages, it isn’t a bad idea to quiz them on your phone number (if they know it) or to give them an easy-to-find slip of paper with your phone number on it in case they get lost in the crowds after dark. Hey, it can get wild out there!
Counting Candy
When the bags are full or when the little ones’ feet get tired, it is time to go home and count their bounty. I recommend having an adult help the children sort their loot while making a game of it. Count items and put different candies in different piles while a grownup looks for items that might be spoiled, have damaged packaging or potentially be a concern for a child with food allergies. Remove hard candies, gum or anything that poses a choking hazard for very young children. After that, it is a matter of style as to what parents do next. I am agnostic on this part. My dental colleagues mostly object on all counts, and I respect them for that.
With just a few simple precautions, Halloween can be a night filled with fun and excitement for children of all ages. By choosing safe costumes and supervising trick-or-treating, parents can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins have a memorable experience. Whether you're crafting a spooky getup or watching your child delight in their candy haul, these small steps go a long way toward making Halloween both safe and magical. So, grab your flashlight, keep an eye on the little ones and get ready for a hauntingly good time!
