When I was 10 and my sisters 7 and 8, my Mother made us robot costumes
out of boxes. They were quite elaborate consisting of two stacked boxes each and won
rave reviews from the homes we visited.
The only problem was the outfits were hard to
walk in and it was impossible to walk up stairs. We had to be lifted up steps to
reach the front doors, which was taking a toll on my Mom. And once my little sister
tripped and fell face down unable to get up. With the remaining strength she had in
her, my Mom rolled my sister over and brought her to her feet. It was the most effort
we ever put into getting candy.
Costume:
Doesn’t obstruct vision in any direction
Doesn’t obstruct breathing
Fireproof, flame resistant
Props are not sharp or dangerous
Fits properly (doesn’t drag on ground)
Easily visible at night
Can safely and easily maneuver
Bathroom friendly (and have the child go before leaving the house)
Proper layers so overheating or becoming cold is avoided
Makes sure your child wears or carries something that lights (such as a flashlight with fresh batteries)
Well fitting shoes
Place emergency ID somewhere on child
Consider non-toxic or hypoallergenic face paints instead of a mask
Trick or Treat Bag:
The bag or container should fit the size of the child
Make sure bag is not too long that it drags on the ground
Make sure the bag is not too heavy for the child to carry
Make sure the bag does not have any sharp edges
Home Decorations and Safety:
Pumpkins or other items with candles should be located away from trick-or-treaters
Save pumpkin carving for adults and let the kids clean out the pumpkin and decorate with paints
Put pets away during trick-or-treat hours
Make sure your home is well lit
Remove tripping hazards on the way to your door
Etiquette:
Explain the difference between tricks and vandalism
A thank you is always welcome
Only go to homes that have outside lights turned on
Treat Safety:
Feed the kids before trick-or-treating to cut down on the need to eat the candy
Examine candy and treats before turning them over to your kids; let your children know not to eat any items until you have had a chance to make sure they are safe (this is especially true if children have food allergies); make sure treats are age appropriate
Consider giving alternatives to candy like card games, notebooks, pencils, crayons or decals
Other Safety Tips:
Avoid letting children bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard; it’s dangerous to them and others
If no sidewalk is available, walk on the farthest edge of the street facing traffic
Remind older children on their own to stay in a group
Review traffic safety rules
Opt for school or community parties, especially for younger children
For older kids, know where they plan to trick-or-treat if not going with them and set a time they are to return home
Trick-or-treat only in neighborhoods and at homes you feel comfortable
Let your children know to never go into a home without you being present
