Radio Corey Special Edition 1: Halloween
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Halloween is coming up. I discuss some of the tricks and tips that I use when going trick-or-treating
Halloween is a wonderful time of the year where kids (and adults alike) dress up and go out throughout the neighborhood getting treats. Being a parent I care about the trick-or-treating habits that my kids learn. I’ve compiled what I do every year for my child. Trick-or-treating isn’t just going out, hitting some houses and coming home. There is planning to ensure that your child is safe on this day.
Check for sexual predators online
This is the first thing you should do. (In fact, checking several times a year isn’t a bad idea either). You can start by going to Family Watchdog and checking your local law enforcement website. These place have great search engines where you can put your address in and see who lives near you. The websites give you everything you need to know about the person including their picture and address.
Plan the route you are going to take
Now that you know who lives in your neighborhood you can plan your route accordingly. Make sure that an adult or responsible older sibling goes along. Never let your child go out alone.
Make sure the costume is safe
When buying store bought costumes ensure that they are fire proof or retardant. Avoid putting makeup near the eyes as this can run when they sweat and make it hard to see. Eye holes should be large enough to see through allowing for peripheral vision. Nothing should be lower than the ankle, makes it easier to walk and a less chance of tripping.
Ensure you can been seen
Make sure that your child has reflective gear on. Some sneakers have this on them. Wearing the glow sticks or bracelets also helps out. And ALWAYS carry a flashlight and have it on!
Use a sturdy container
Avoid using plastic bags. They have a good chance of ripping if they are poked or too heavy. Pillow cases make great sturdy candy holders. Also bring an extra bag for the parent incase the kids container gets too full or heavy for them to carry.
Teach your child basic safety
Most kids will rolls their eyes at you, but there is nothing wrong with saying this to them again. Kids do get distracted with all the fun and frivolity of the holiday. Remind them never to get into the car of a stranger and to look both ways before crossing the street.
Explain the difference between tricks and vandalism
Kids think that it might be funny to throw eggs at people, but there are consequences that can happen. It’s not funny – it’s wrong.
Manners are still important
Reminding your child to say “thank you” after getting a treat from someone is a good idea too. This can easily be forgotten too.
Set a time your child should be home by
Halloween is an early event in most neighborhoods. Most kids are in their own houses by 9pm due to having to go to school the next day or not to disturb people who want to settle down before going to sleep.
Eat a light meal before treading out
Just like going to the grocery store – don’t go out hungry. The kids already want to eat the candy. Don’t give them another excuse on why they should eat it the moment they get it. A light meal will help them when they are out there. Eating heavy and big meals can make the experience less pleasant for everyone.
One parent should stay home while one goes out
This helps to protect the house from being vandalized and someone can be there to hand out candy to the kids who come to the door. If possible, take shifts, so each parent can enjoy time with their kids.
Be prepared for the weather
Make sure that you have jackets if it’s going to be cold or an umbrella if it’s going to rain. Don’t want to be caught out there without this stuff if something happens.
Stay near your child at all time
It’s dark out there at night even with everyone’s porch lights on. Stay close enough to them so you know where they are. Standing by the road as they head up to a porch that’s 50 feet away isn’t a smart thing.
Always check the candy first
The best thing to do it to take the candy home and spread it across a table. It’s much easier to look at the candy in a brightly light room instead of using a flashlight in the dark. Avoid anything that’s homemade or the wrapper is opens. Inspect wrappers for pin holes or for anything unusual. The best candy bars are the ones where the wrapper is air tight and you can feel the air inside.
Music from Outside’s “A Radio Transmission of Unkown Origin” and The New Radio’s “Back to the Basics” both available at Podsafe Audio.
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Use the green shopping bags from Publix, target, or walmart for the candy.