Dehorrifying Halloween

Monsters & Other Imaginary Critters: Fears of unusual, imaginary and strange creatures are common to many children. If you work with children or are a parent, you know this already. But, on Halloween there really are strange and wondrous beasts walking the streets and ringing our doorbells. Spend some time telling your child exactly what will happen and how people will be acting. Describe in detail what the child can expect. Remember, too, that some of the “Haunted Houses” created by neighbors or used by community groups as fundraisers are simply too scary for little ones. And, once inside, it isn’t always easy to exit gracefully. Talk to someone who has already been to the “House” you’re thinking about visiting before deciding whether your child can cope. Even with this kind of preparation, young children often become frightened, cry, withdraw, cling or refuse to participate. If your child becomes upset while out trick or treating, don’t force the issue. Going home to pass out treats may be just as fun! (Or, if you already know being outside at night with monsters and ghouls will be too much for your child, plan a party at home with a few friends.)

Boos! & Other Scary Noises: Loud or sudden noises and unexpected movements frighten many young children. Remember when your child was a baby? Tell your children (especially first-timers) that on Halloween people will not only be wearing strange costumes and masks, but will also be yelling and might be jumping at them and saying “boo!” There might be unpredictable sounds and crashes. These are all part of the holiday.

Dark: Many times a brave daytime child will be afraid of the dark. If you plan to take your child trick or treating in the dark, explain that Halloween is a nighttime event and that you will be nearby. If competent older children take your under-fives out, explain to them some of the feelings that younger children might be having. Ask them to try to be considerate, not to unduly frighten the younger children, and never to leave them behind. For some children, just taking a walk at dusk or after dusk is, in itself, a new experience.

Costumes: Plan a costume with, not for, your child. Let your child choose the costume, preferably made from odds and ends around the house. Any costume is good for Halloween, and no costume at all is also all right. Be sure the final outfit is comfortable and safe with no dragging hems or dangerous tangles. Also make sure it is clearly visible at night. (Attach strips of reflective tape to a dark outfit.)

Masks: If your child wants to wear a mask for trick or treating, have her try it out ahead of time – several days would be good. Make sure the child can see clearly and don’t hesitate to enlarge the eyeholes if necessary. (Make-up can be a safe alternative to a mask.) If you have very young children, or if this is a child’s first Halloween, help the child gain perspective by playing with the mask – taking it off and on, making sure the child knows who is behind the mask. You both can take turns playing peek-a-boo as you would with a baby. Use a mirror so that the child can see what his entire costume and mask looks like. Discussions and playing with masks before “the night” are good ideas even with older children.