I wanted to call this post ‘Halloween hacks’ but as someone who didn’t grow up with this holiday, that title didn’t ring true. Celebrating Halloween with children has truly been a fun but chaotic adventure that I have been navigating as best as possible the last couple of years.
I always imagine living in Buenos Aires as a young child and someone telling me to go knock on random people’s doors asking for candy while dressed up in silly costumes. It sounds like the beginning of a scary movie…
Since living in the US, I have definitely gotten comfortable with the idea of trick or treating and have been enjoying doing it with my children. Last year was the first time that both kids were able to partake in a meaningful way, so I am looking forward to another fun time in a few weeks.
As fun as it was, it was also overwhelming. The streets were packed and also dark. There were a few cars on the streets where children were running around. Pets were also present and adding to the chaos.
I was thinking what kinds of things I could do this year to make things a little bit easier (hence the initial thought to call this blog ‘hacks’), so here is my list!
1. Buy costumes early. Last year, we got our costumes early and the kids really loved wearing them around the house. This is not really a tip for the actual Halloween day but it really makes the price of the costume worthwhile when they are wearing it every day for weeks! Costumes can also be made or put together from things that already exist in your home.
2. Bring a wagon or stroller. It is a great way to carry extra jackets, bags, water bottles, and if your child is like mine, a small human before the night is over. We were only able to do one block the first few years we lived in our neighborhood and a wagon has helped our ability to keep going!
3. Adult beverages and snacks. I learned last Halloween that we are very lucky and live in a neighborhood with people that love to not only put candy out for the kids but they also have stuff for adults! I had already prepared myself with a wine tumbler before I realized all the goodies that were available. You can pick whatever you want to keep you going (hot apple cider, tea, etc). It gets cold once it’s dark! The wagon helps carry any extra stuff.
4. Buy or recycle cheap Halloween bags. My kids destroy everything that they touch. I love to use bags from birthday parties, giveaway buckets from stores, or any other cheap Halloween container since I know they won’t make it too long after the holiday.
5. Supervise the candy. I can still do this with my kids (4 and 6). I put their bags away and they can only grab stuff after the holiday when supervised.
6. Be inclusive with your treats. I love to have a variety of things for everyone: nut free, gluten free, and some healthier options like pretzels. I haven’t tried this yet but some people put out fruits, like clementines. I also like to put a purple pumpkin in honor of patients with epilepsy.
If you don’t live in an area where it is safe to do things like this, there are often events at malls or other stores or downtown areas nearby, where you can tale your children for a short period of time. Some places will even have trunk or treat events or pre- Halloween events the weekend before during daytime hours. Check your local listings and Social media groups.
I hope everyone has a happy and safe Halloween! Don’t forget to share your pics!