Your toddler’s first Halloween is super exciting, but it can also be scary?both for your first-timer, who isn’t used to being out in the dark with spooky decorations; and for their parents, who are trying to keep them safe on dim, busy streets.
Dina DiMaggio, of the American Academy of Paediatrics, tells parents to watch out for any fears or anxieties about Halloween. ?As a parent, you know your child best,? she says. ?The best way to handle fear and get a toddler ready is to discuss what’s going to happen. Reading books to your child about trick-or-treating?and Halloween in general?are great ways to help that discussion.”
You can also give your kid a practice run in their costume on the day before Halloween. Encourage them to pretend to trick-or-treat. After all, practice makes perfect. To help ensure you have a fun and safe first Halloween, we’ve compiled some more ideas to help you ease your little one into some spooky fun.
1. Get in the spirit early
Do some fun activities in the lead-up to Halloween. For example, allow your baby or toddler to squish their hands around the insides of a pumpkin. This can be a great sensory activity. There are also plenty of no-carve pumpkin decorating options to try. Enjoy some seasonal songs and rhymes like Five Little Pumpkins, along with board books. While you?re on walks in the neighbourhood, point out Hallowe?en decorations.
2. Stick to your routine
Infants and young children thrive on routine, and i...