Parents Halloween Survival Guide

Jess-Miller-Sunglasses
Published by 
Jess Miller
Last updated: 
April 16, 2023
trick or treat pumpkin with candles

So it’s that time of year again. Costumes and candy line every single convenience store, and you can’t remember the last time you went trick-or-treating. You may find yourself wondering what kids wear these days, or whether you have to actually buy candy when you know you’re not going to be able to eat it.

Ah yes, the joys of Halloween. Every parent has experienced it at one point or another between decorating the house, buying bulk loads of candy or making sure your kids have the perfect costume that makes your neighbor's kids jealous.

What if there was a way to make things easier though? Some sort of method that would calm the frantic rush of the encroaching holiday season. Listed below are some things that I would have known the first time around.

Don't Pay a Fortune on Costumes

Believe it or not you don't need to spend a fortune on a costume. Ask your friends for some hand-me-downs, or try your hand at DIYing. Pinterest is a life-saver when it comes to DIY projects, and surprisingly enough, it yields a lot of cool ideas. Plus you can have your little one help which makes the experience all the better. If you happen to have a sewing machine, the possibilities are endless!

Never feel obligated to spend a fortune on your child's costume because most of the time, they wear it once and never again. There are so many ways you can create an awesome look, but for less. The same goes for baby halloween costumes. They'll only get used once, so don't break the bank.

diy lego family costume

Do a Dress Rehearsal

fun halloween costume for family

You should always have your kids try on their costumes beforehand because you never know what you need to add or fix unless you try it on. If their costumes involve face paint, give that a go before the big night or you might end up with a kid who looks like they fell into a paint explosion. The cape could be too long, or the eye holes could be too small. It's better to nip the problem beforehand so you're saved the stress of finding out the night of.

Also make sure that they can breathe in and out. If it's too tight, they won't be able to move or breathe right, and kids need to breath - even on Halloween.

Be One Step Ahead

As a parent, you quickly learn to come prepared to any situation. For the big night you may want to bring a small pair of scissors to snip any loose strings or material for your child's costume. If you do not have a pair of scissors, some sticky tape will do the job too.

If you have girls, slip a pair of sneakers or flats in your bag. Trick-or-treating involves a lot of walking, and even if they insist going in their tutu dress and princess heels, they will appreciate it later.

man holding chess piece

Eat Dinner Beforehand

boy eating pasta

Make sure your little trick-or-treaters get something to eat before the night. Even if it's something quick, eating a protein-rich snack will make all the difference.

Without a little something in their stomach beforehand, there will be nothing there to counteract all the sugar they eat. That's a belly ache waiting to happen.

No Candy Until You Get Home

I sound like a terrible mother for saying this, but hear me out. Candy tampering is rare, but it still happens. It's better off being safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your kids.

Wait until you get home, and sort through the candy first and then give it to them. When you go through the bag you can remove any pieces that look suspicious or already opened. You will feel more at peace knowing that what your kids are eating has gone under your observation first.

candies and chocolates

Take Advantage of the Season

family together on holiday

October is a beautiful time of year. The leaves are changing color, and it's the start of the holiday season. Amidst rush of getting everything prepared, don't forget to enjoy the season with your family.

Take some time to go apple-picking, or carve pumpkins. Take a nice walk around the neighborhood, or on a crisp night start a bonfire and roast some marshmallows. With fall comes so many opportunities for family time, be intentional in spending time with your little ones. They'll appreciate it one day.

In Conclusion

The holidays can be hectic, but it doesn't always have to be like that. Always keep things in perspective, and remember to take time for things that really matter. Cherish the memories you have with them, because they will be grown up before you know it.

family cutting papers and bonding

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