Halloween Safety Tips for Parents with Young Children
As Halloween approaches, it’s an exciting time for little ones eager to dress up and go trick-or-treating! At Encompass Family Support Services, we know how important it is to keep our youngest trick-or-treaters safe, especially when they’re just beginning to explore and learn about the world around them. We have compiled a list of simple tips to ensure a fun and safe Halloween night for your family.
Stay Visible
Young children can be easily overlooked in the dark, so make sure they’re visible by adding reflective tape to their costumes or giving them glow sticks to carry. Consider costumes that are bright or have light-up features to help them stand out.
Choose Comfortable and Safe Costumes
For little ones, comfort is key! Avoid costumes that are too long, have small pieces, or can easily trip them up. Make sure masks fit well and don’t block their vision. Opt for face paint instead of masks for easier breathing and visibility.
Early Intervention Connection: Encourage your child to practice wearing their costume before Halloween. This helps them get used to it and ensures it’s comfortable, reducing any potential sensory discomfort.
Stick Together
Always trick-or-treat with a trusted adult or in a group. For younger children, holding hands while crossing streets and walking can provide a sense of security. This also gives you a chance to reinforce listening skills and following directions.
Early Intervention Connection: Use this time to encourage your child to stay with the group and follow safety instructions. These are great ways to reinforce early listening and communication skills.
Know the Route
Plan a familiar and well-lit route ahead of time. Stick to neighborhoods you know and avoid houses without porch lights on. This ensures your child feels comfortable and safe.
Early Intervention Connection: Review the plan with your child. Name the family members, friends, and neighbors you plan to see.
Check the Treats Together
Once you return home, inspect your child’s candy together. Check for any open packages or unfamiliar items. Use this time to sort out any choking hazards for younger kids.
Practice Crossing the Street
Teach your child to always look both ways before crossing the street, even if you're holding their hand. Practicing this together in advance makes it easier to follow through on Halloween night.
Early Intervention Connection: Reinforce street safety by playing games that involve stopping, looking, and listening. This can help young children understand the importance of these skills in a fun way.
Enjoying a Safe Halloween with Early Intervention in Mind
Halloween is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories with your little one. By incorporating these safety tips, you can make sure your child enjoys the holiday while learning valuable lessons that support their early intervention journey.
At Encompass Family Support Services, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you’d like more tips on creating safe and inclusive experiences for your child, feel free to reach out. Wishing you a fun, magical, and safe Halloween!
