Halloween is a time for kids to dress up and have a great time trick-or-treating with their friends.  What kid doesn’t love Halloween?  As parents we play an important role in making sure our kids have a safe and happy Halloween.  It is our job to help them use their creativity to pick out a great costume while making sure that costume is safe and appropriate.  It is our job to teach them about the important safety tips that will keep them safe and healthy as they venture out for some trick-or-treating.

As your kids get ready to celebrate Halloween in a few days here are a few important safety tips to keep in mind.

• Make sure your child’s costume is safe.  Masks can be dangerous as your child can’t see well out of them.  If they will be wearing a mask make sure the eye holes are big enough for good visibility.  Also, be sure there aren’t any long pieces hanging down around their feet that could pose a trip hazard.
• Teach your child about appropriate Halloween behavior including; what houses are okay to visit, stranger rules, staying in a group, etc.
• Always have a responsible adult available to accompany your children out trick-or-treating.  They may feel like they are old enough to go out on their own, but having an adult present helps keep them safe.
• Explain to your child that he or she should not eat any of the candy they collect until they have brought it home and allowed you to examine it.
• Consider the weather in your area.  If it is cold where you are make sure your children are dressed appropriately.
• Set guidelines for how long they are allowed to stay out, how many homes they can visit, etc.

The most important thing is to make sure your child understands the rules and what will make this a safe and happy Halloween.  Let them enjoy themselves while keeping a careful eye on them to ensure they are safe.

Happy Halloween everyone