Halloween Trick or Treating Tips for Toddlers

I’m really excited for Halloween this year because my daughter is two-years-old and she actually (kind of) understands what’s happening. She knows to say Trick-or-Treat, she knows to carry her pumpkin bucket around, “do knock-knock” on doors and dress up in costume.

I’m pumped…weeks of practicing seems to have worked.

However, she’s still not into keeping things on her head, and I’m not sure how long this whole trick-or-treating business will keep her interested. She’s a toddler, I’m thinking 10 minutes?!

Either way, I did some online research and found some great Halloween tips for parents of toddlers.

Here are some key things to keep in mind:

– Keep costumes weather appropriate. If it’s warm in your area, keep fabrics light and cool. And it’s a bit cold out, be sure to dress your little one in heavier fabrics or even layers.

– Choose a bathroom-friendly costume. My daughter is in the throws of potty training, so an easy costume is a must for us.

– Make sure costume is non-flammable. Many homes decorate their yard with candles and if your child’s costume isn’t flame-retardant, it could make for a very dangerous situation.

– Have your toddler wear a glow bracelet or necklace. You want others to see your child coming, plus he/she won’t have to carry a flashlight.

– Bring limited things to hold. Kids always want to bring their favorite stuffed animal or toy with them places, and it’s usually the parents who get stuck holding it. Try to leave those favorites at home and bring a backpack instead that holds diapers, snacks or a drink for your child. Parents, you’ll probably be holding the candy bag and flashlight too.

– If possible, go to homes of people you know. Thankfully, we’re friendly with all of the people on our street, so I know this experience will make my daughter feel comfortable. Visiting the homes of strangers in costume asking for candy is a difficult concept to explain to a toddler!

– Avoid homes that are decorated to scare people. You don’t want to carry a crying toddler home, that could ruin their whole experience, and yours too!

– Feed your toddler dinner before trick or treating. A full tummy makes a happy toddler and happy parent!

– Inspect all Halloween candy when you get home. This seems obvious, but your toddler can probably only have a small amount of what they bring home. From hard pieces to tiny pieces, be sure to weed out the bad stuff and maybe keep it for yourself!

Mommies, if you have any other tips, I’d love to hear them!

Be safe everyone and Happy Halloween!