Halloween night can go from fun to frantic quickly. A simple plan, made a few days ahead, keeps the excitement and avoids the meltdowns.
A few days before
- Try costumes on and fix anything that trips, blocks vision or is too cold for the weather.
- Choose face paint or makeup rather than masks that limit vision, and test it on a small patch of skin first.
- Buy treats to hand out and put them in a bowl by the door.
- Agree the route, who is going and what time you will be home.
Safety basics
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests flame-resistant costumes, reflective tape on costumes and bags, and a flashlight for each child. Children should walk on pavements, cross at corners and stay with a trusted adult. Older children going with friends should have a route and a check-in time.
On the night
- Eat an early, filling dinner before going out.
- Take a small bag with spare layers, wipes and a flashlight.
- Check treats at home before eating, and remove choking hazards for young children.
A plan for the candy
Decide in advance: for example, choose a few pieces on the night, then a set number each day. Some families swap extra candy for a small toy or a book.
Wind down
Costumes off, a bath and a story. Store costume pieces in the dress-up box for next year.
Sources & further reading
Adapt these ideas to your household. Organization guidance is general information, not medical, safety or financial advice.
