Tip #1: Avoid Wearing Masks
Masks look great and they can really bring a costume together, but they also reduce your child’s vision. It’s hard to avoid a hazard if you can’t see it coming. Other alternatives to masks are non-toxic make-up kits, fun glasses, or half-face masks that don’t completely cover the head and face. If your kid really must have a mask this year, you can also try widening the eyes in the mask yourself, to increase their field of vision.
Tip #2: Wear Bright and Colorful Costumes
Most trick or treating is done in the dark, and so to ensure your kid can be easily seen by drivers, make or buy them a bright or lightly colored costumes. Avoid costumes that will blend them in with dark surroundings. You can add flashing lights to their costume, or have them wear glow-stick bracelets or necklaces. If that isn’t the route you or your child wants to take, adding reflective tape on the back or front of their costumes is just as effective.
Tip #3: Dress for the Weather
It’s been a cold October and it’s only going to get colder, so make sure make sure your kids are dressed to survive the chills as well as the frights on Halloween night. Try adding layers to your child’s costume, or making them a costume they can wear layered clothing underneath. Or, you can always dress your kid up as the Abominable Snow Man (they must know how to stay warm in the Himalayas, right?).
Tip #4: Wear Properly Fitted Costumes
Make sure your child’s costume fits properly and isn’t causing more hazards to either their vision or their movement. Poorly fitting costumes can increase the chances of slips, trips, and falls. Some items to avoid are oversized shoes, high heels, long dresses, and capes.
Now here’s a General Tip:
If your child is under the age of 10, they should be accompanied by an adult while Trick or Treating. By that age, some children are ready to go trick or treating with a group of friends. If that’s the case with your child, make sure they are with a group of at least three others. Also, discuss the route they are going to follow with them before they venture out, and set a curfew for when they should come home.
