Making Tricks (good ones) and Treats fun this Halloween!

I love Halloween.  It does seem to sneak up on me quicker and quicker every year.  Halloween reminds us that Fall is officially here and Halloween always brings about great teachable moments to talk about safety with your kids and to review your family safety rules.

You can start with these easy Halloween tips to help you get the conversation going! 

• Always use the buddy system when trick or treating.
• Young kids need to be accompanied by a TRUSTED adult.
• Know the homes of where your child will receive treats.
• Demonstrate safety by approaching only well lit homes (inside and out).
• Remind children to NEVER enter someone’s home without permission from their parents.
• Stress to children they should never approach a vehicle (occupied or not).
• Remind children and adults to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
• Older kids should have a set time to return home if they are trick or treating with friends.
• Review (and practice) your name address and phone number with your kids.
• Walk through your neighborhood with your kids during the day and plan your trick or treat route.
• Talk about which homes are “safe houses” in case they need to seek assistance.
• Remind older kids to stick to a designated route and to check in if anything changes in their plans.

The only thing that should be scary at Halloween is the haunted house (and maybe the amount of candy your kids eat) but talking safety should not be scary. Never use scare tactics when talking about safety with your kids. Keep the conversation short and simple.

Looking for an alternative to handing our candy? Try something new like glow sticks or safety tattoos! You can order them online from www.tattooswithapurpose.com. Promote the message of safety, avoid the sugar and the kids will love them!

Most of all…. Don’t be afraid to talk to your kids about safety and have a safe October!