It's that time again when children
enjoy dressing up and roaming the neighborhoods in search of some of their
favorite candy. Here are some things we can do to help make this Halloween
safer for everyone:
1. LIGHTING:
a. Make sure the pathway to your home is well lit. If you are using
candles to light the way, make sure they are a safe distance from the sidewalk
or driveway. Some children wear items made of paper or carry paper
bags.
b. If you are going to use the "dark"
affect, make sure there are no tripping hazards in the way.
2. CLOTHING:
a. Use clothing or a costume that allows others to see your child from a
safe distance. It's not uncommon for some children to ride their bikes,
roller blades, or skateboards from house to house. Some children can
travel at high speeds on these things and before you know it, they can be
right on top of you.
b. Avoid using paper costumes. More
and more people are lighting their pathways with small candles. These
often invite a curious child in for a closer look.
3. CANDY:
a. Talk with your children about eating candy before they get home. You
should inspect the candy before they eat it. If you are not going out trick
or treating with your child, buy them some of their favorite candy to eat
along the way.
b. Make sure you inspect "all" the candy.
Anything that looks like it was tampered with should be thrown out.
It's best to error on the safe side.
4. GROUPS:
a. Make sure your child walks or rides around with other children and "never"
alone.
b. Children should be told under no
circumstance are they to go up to any "vehicle" or stranger during the evening.
I use the word vehicle because some children will think its o.k. to
go up to a van or bus if you tell them to stay away from all "cars". There
are many ways you can provide a night of great entertainment without going
out. Here is just one idea:
1. HALLOWEEN PARTY:
a. Coordinated a neighborhood custom party. Have each parent bring a bag
of candy and a small snack such as cookies or brownies. You can set
up various games such as:
1. Guess the number of jellybeans in
the jar.
2. Guess who is under the custume.
3. Candy toss. Put a box on the floor.
Give each child 5 pieces of candy to throw in the box.
4. Have a ghost story telling sessions
with the lights down low and music. Of course the storyteller should be wearing
a sheet!
5. Play "Guess the Monster". Someone
describes a monster and the children have to guess who it is.
6. Set up a craft table or two and have
the children draw and color things associated with Halloween.
About the Author: Donald A. Davis is a father of two and a 19 year military man. He is a "Morale" Officer. He was born in Billerica, MA, and graduated from Billerica High.
He worked at a computer company for one year after high school and then joined the military.
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