Tricks and Treats with Your Toddler
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
If you live with a toddler, you know they are full of tricks and treats! Sweet one moment, mischievous the next, they are the active, hands-on learners and make most outings exciting, to say the least! This is also true with holiday celebrations, including Halloween.
By the time children reach toddlerhood, they have a few experiences "under their belt" and are catching on. From observing traditions in their home and in their community, toddlers are usually ready, willing and able to participate in holiday fun.
However, it is important to note that although your toddler may be a walking and talking machine, they are not ready for all experiences. As you get ready for your Halloween celebrations, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Let your toddler play an active role in choosing to wear or not to wear a costume. Toddlers are becoming independent little people. Empower them to help make decisions when you can. Too many options may be overwhelming, so it may be wise to narrow costume choices to two options - either one that would be okay with you. Also, keep in mind, that scary costumes may simply be too frightening to your toddler. Holidays should be fun - sometimes the simpler the costume (even something as simple as a silly hat) is the perfect solution. It is also wise to stay away from make-up, which may be an irritant to a toddler's sensitive skin. Finally, keep safety and comfort at the top of the list when it comes to choosing a costume. Will your toddler be able to see? Move?
- Your little one may have caught on to candy and sweet treats. At this point, it may be okay to share a little sweet treat with your child. Keep in mind potential safety and health factors such as consumption of peanut-based products and candies that may present a choking hazard.
- If you decide to partake of trick-or-treating festivities in your neighborhood, keep it short. A few houses of close family or friends may be just enough of an experience for your child. It may also be wise to avoid after dark trick-or-treating or venturing to high volume areas which may not only have individuals dressed in scary costumes, but also spooky sounds. Consider family-friendly alternatives such as hosting a small family or neighborhood get together. This is not only a way to keep it safe and appropriate for your child, but is also a great time to establish a fun, annual, tradition.
With these few tips in mind, Halloween with your toddler is sure to be more of a treat than trick!
