Halloween can be an exciting time for your kids to dress up in their favorite costume and go trick-or-treating with friends and family. It’s a night where they get to yell, laugh, be silly, and have fun. However, it’s also important that they are staying safe. This applies to everything from what they’re wearing to where they’re going and how they’re getting there. As you’re making your plans for Halloween, be thinking about safety as well and how you can be more proactive:
- Make sure costumes are comfortable and not too long: Your kids should be able to move easily without the risk of tripping over long dresses, pants, or capes. Avoid anything that is too scratchy, stiff, or cumbersome. They should also be wearing comfortable shoes – on the correct feet.
- Avoid masks: If possible, opt for face paint instead of a mask. Masks can interfere with your child’s ability to clearly see where they are going, or see things happening around them. They can also become hot and stuffy to breathe in.
- Light it up: Apply reflective tape to your child’s costume (or shoes) or give them glow sticks, necklaces, or bracelets. They may also want to carry a flashlight. Adults should carry flashlights as well so everyone can see where they are walking and who is nearby.
- Make a plan: Little legs can become tired quickly. Plan a route ahead of time so that you know where you’re going and it won’t be too long or hilly to follow. Stick to roads that have sidewalks whenever possible.
- Talk safety: Remind your children to stick with the group, never go into someone’s home, to always walk – especially when crossing streets, to look both ways, and not to eat any of their candy (as tempting as it can be) until they get home or have permission from you.
Don’t forget that your neighborhood isn’t the only place your child can have Halloween fun. PediaPlex will be holding a free, spooktacular Halloween trick-or-treat event on Thursday, October 27 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. There will be allergy-approved and gluten-free snacks and treats for children and lots of fun to be had!
Leave a comment and let us know what other Halloween safety tips you follow!
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