For kids, Halloween looms large –
a night to stay up late, dress in scary costumes, and gorge on buckets of candy.
But for Mom and Dad – between kids hopped up on sugar and determined to hit
every house within a 10-mile radius – Halloween can turn into a very long night.
How do you keep your little ghouls and goblins safe and sound on the spookiest
night of the year?
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Start Off in Style: A pre-trick-or-treating party kicks off the
festivities for kids but also serves a real purpose for parents. It breaks up
the agonizing wait for darkness to hit and also allows parents to serve up
healthy snacks so kids don’t head out on an empty stomach.
·
Clear the Way: Between pumpkins on the steps, Halloween
decorations on display, and piles of leaves everywhere, just getting to the
front door can be a challenge. Before the big night, take a look at your front
walkway and make sure kids can easily reach your house.
·
Stress Safety over Spookiness: Sometimes the scariest costumes prove the
most problematic, with capes that drag on the ground, ill-fitting masks that
cover kids’ eyes, and an overabundance of dark colors. Ensure kids can walk
without tripping, opt for make-up over masks, and place reflective tape on
costumes to ensure visibility.
·
No Magic Age: Whether or not it’s OK for kids to head out
on Halloween without Mom and Dad depends solely on the maturity of each child,
if older siblings will be along, and how far
they plan to meander. Typically, kids begin going out with a big group of friends
and just in the immediate neighborhood around sixth grade – but limit the time
and insist they stay in touch via cell phones.
·
Out & About: Give younger kids some autonomy by letting
them go up to houses alone while you remain on the sidewalk. Kids of all ages
should only approach well-lit, welcoming homes. And on a night filled with
sticky candy, pumpkin carving and more, don’t forget to take along Wet Ones®
Antibacterial Hand Wipe Travel Packs to ensure hands stay clean on the go.
·
Check the Loot: Make sure kids know to bring candy home
first for inspection before sampling -- no eating on the go! For kids with
allergies, braces, or other dietary restrictions, have a discussion beforehand
so they understand the rules still apply and can choose, for example, chocolate
bars over candy with nuts and caramel.