Do’s and Don’ts for Halloween Trick-or-Treating

Whether you are a young parent accompanying your kids on their first Halloween or a seasoned parent speaking to your teenagers, before they head to a Halloween costume party, there are several things you should keep in mind so your children stay safe and happy. There are many words of wisdom about trick-or-treating and Halloween costume parties, so remember to also use your own good judgment in situations. Remember: it is a night of tricks and treats, mischief and tomfoolery. Try to maintain a balance between fun and fright. When else can your children don an outrageous Halloween costume and race around the neighborhood, gathering large amounts of candy?

Do’s for Halloween Costumes and Trick-or-Treating

Do help your children pick out his or her Halloween costume. Remember that a Halloween costume also serves as a way for your child to let loose, explore a new side of their personality, and have a little fun. Be understanding if your five-year-old wants to dress up as a cow or if your ten-year-old wants a Barbara Walters Halloween costume.

Use caution when providing feedback and suggestions, and try to stay positive and encouraging. Do provide your child with a flashlight, a few dollars to use in an emergency, and, if possible, a cell phone or pager.

If you will not be accompanying your child and his or her friends, make sure you know the route they plan to take and even a few houses where they can go in an emergency. Do trust your children, but make sure they know that your household and family rules still apply on Halloween. Even your son dressed up in his Dracula Halloween costume must obey his parents!

Don’ts for Halloween Costumes and Trick-or-Treating

Don’t ignore, insult, or otherwise mock your kid’s Halloween costume. Many children opt to make their own homemade Halloween costumes out of sheets, cardboard, and other household items. This is a time where they can be creative and imaginative—be encouraging!

Check in with the parents of the other children. Don’t assume that everything will take care of itself. You need to know where your children will be, which route they will take around the neighborhood, and when to expect everyone home.

Be sure to stress the responsibility that comes with Halloween, and emphasize that you trust your kids. If, for any reason, the thought of trick-or-treating or a Halloween costume party makes you nervous, talk to your kids, talk to other parents, and try to resolve the situation or even come up with an alternative. Trust your instincts.

Lastly, don’t forget to check over your kid’s Halloween candy. Yes, the razor in the apple story is more urban legend than fact, but you need to look over the loot and discard any suspicious, opened, or otherwise harmful items. Some families decide to hold onto all the candy and, every day or so, give out a few pieces to their children.

This decision is up to you. If you would rather dole out the candy, that’s fine. It may help your children avoid stomachaches, nausea, and cavities from way too much sugar! And don’t forget to carefully store your kid’s Halloween costume. You may want to use it again, or you may to want it as a reminder of your family’s fun Halloween celebrations.

Article courtesy of InCostume.com.