Happy Halloween!
From Your JC PPS Team
A few quick tips for tonight...
From various sources...here are a few tips to help make Halloween a bit easier for all!
Provide step-by-step instructions for how trick-or-treating works. For instance, how we knock on the door and say, “trick-or-treat” but don’t go into the house, put the candy in the bag, say thank you, and go to the next house. Practice this routine before the big night. Some kids may need days of practice; some kids may be good with only one dry run. Don’t forget to go over what to do if there is a break in the routine, for instance if a neighbor is not home. Here’s one tricky rule. We teach our kids all year that they should never take candy from strangers. Since our kids live by rules, they may have a difficult time reconciling this rule infraction. You may think that of course you would never go to a stranger’s house, but the stranger issue could come into play if you go trick-or-treating at a community center or mall.
Here are some other ways to help manage trick-or-treating trouble spots:
- Map out and practice the route with your child ahead of time so it feels familiar.
- Go out at dusk or before the streets get very dark and crowded.
- Bring a flashlight.
- Pull your younger child in a wagon or let your older child ride his bike to avoid having other kids crowd or bump into him.
Know your child's limits. For some children, “trick or treating” may simply be too overwhelming. If it is too much there are other ways to enjoy the festive holiday. Instead, host a Halloween party with one or two of your child’s friends, play fun sensory-friendly games, or invite friends and family over and have your child “trick or treat” from room to room in your house.
Halloween in general is a holiday that is filled with plenty of noise, lights and activity. Kids are screaming “trick or treat!”, car headlights are bright, there’s creepy music, and families fill the streets. This can be extremely overwhelming. Keeping the night short, sweet, and within their comfort zone will make them happier and more relaxed.