My kids are so excited about Hallowen. They are ready to hit the streets, show off their costumes and collect their hoard of candy. I’ll be excited as soon as I have their costumes done. To keep Halloween night fun though, everyone needs to stay safe by following some rules. Here are some helpful tips to make sure your kids stay safe and have fun trick or treating. For more fun, check out these easy and creative Halloween family fun activities and ideas. Adult Participation Required. Walk with your kids if you don’t think they’re old enough to trick-or-treat on their own. There is no “right” age to let your kids trick or treat alone. I’ve heard anywhere from 8 – 12 years old as the magic number. It really depends on your child, the neighborhood, and how far they will be walking. If you’re nervous about it, go with them. Better yet, make it a party and trick or treat with your neighbors. TThis way the older kids won’t feel like you’re “watching” them if you all go in a group. Safety in numbers. If they’re old enough to trick-or-treat without an adult, tell your kids to stay in a group. Give your oldest child a cell phone so you can call or text to find out where they are. If you really want to keep an eye on them, you can track your little gremlins with the Trick or Tracker 2.0 App for your smartphone. Light them up. Give your kids a flashlight so they can watch where they are going and don’t get scared in the dark. It also makes them more visible so cars can see them. You can use a glow stick or reflective tape for this also. Show them the way. Make them a map of the streets they are allowed to trick or treat on. That way you can control how far they roam. Only trick or treat in familiar neighborhoods. Tell your kids to only visit houses with lights on and suggest that they might find their best luck at houses with Halloween decorations outside. Be respectful. I know the kids are excited and they want to hit as many houses as they can but tell them to be respectful and not run through people’s yards. You don’t want a phone call that your kids smashed the neighbor’s flowers or broke their fence. Also, remind them to say “Thank You” after getting their candy. ALWAYS! Stranger Danger Reminder. Tell your kids to stay away from strangers, don’t go up to cars to answer questions, and never go into someone’s house to get candy. Basic stuff but go over it again just so you feel better. Watch the Clock. Check with your local town or village to see what the hours are for trick or treating. Tell your kids to be respectful and not ring any doorbells after the cut off time. Have fun. When the kids get home they’ll be tired but ready to inhale all of their precious candy. Make sure they pay up the Mom and Dad candy tax before they eat all of the good stuff. At what age would you let your kids trick or treat alone? Any other tips to make sure they are safe and having fun?
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