Halloween is one of the holidays that children look forward to the most.
Whether your kids go door to door dressed as their favorite ghouls or take part in some fantastic local celebrations with the family, there are a few things to keep in mind when this candy-filled weekend comes around.
Counting on Good Nutrition
Families and communities are making fantastic strides to provide healthy, mindful alternatives to traditional Halloween sweets. However, kids will always be eager to fill up their bags with plenty of candy. Regardless of the treats your little one collects by the end of the night, be mindful of the following:
- Inspect the snacks before eating them. Advise your kids to bring the loot home for an inspection before chowing down. Only eat factory-wrapped goodies; homemade foods are too much of a risk.
- Plan ahead. Start with a solid, healthy meal before trick-or-treating to encourage a happy stomach the next morning. If you’ve got young kids, you may want to hold onto the snacks and ration them appropriately after lunch or dinner.
Staying Safe in Your Neighborhood
Your children likely already have some safety rules they follow whenever they’re outside playing or coming home from school. On Halloween, remind them of the importance of things like crossing the street safely, not talking with strangers, only walking on sidewalks, and staying close to home. With the spirit of the holiday, though, kids may get a little excited. Consider these steps to keep everyone safe:
- Prepare a route. If your kids are going door to door, you may be accompanying them. However, for older kids who want to venture out with their friends or another trusted adult, work out a safe route ahead of time. Clearly communicate which streets and homes are safe to visit, and remind your kids to never enter a stranger’s house. You can also consider following close and having them stay within sight as a compromise.
- Dress safely. Make sure your kids try on their costumes ahead of time. Be on the lookout for any choking hazards and be aware of potential reactions to makeup or other effects. You can test cosmetics on a small area first to ensure they’re safe. Masks should fit snuggly and comfortably, and the child must be able to see clearly.
There’s a lot to keep in mind when it comes to Halloween safety, but it’s the only way to ensure a happy and positive celebration. For dietary and nutrition guidance or more information about your child’s health needs, contact Green Hills Pediatric Associates today.
The information and content on our website should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice from your doctor.
