This is not my normal thrifty or frugal comment, but since I've been doing some Halloween posts, I decided to mention Halloween Safety!
When you go Trick-or-Treating with your children, be sure to set rules before heading out. Here's some to consider:
- Children must have an adult or responsible teen with them at all times. This is especially important for children under age 10. If your older kids trick-or-treat, an adult needs to be with them.
- Stick to your own neighborhood.
- If the house is not well-lit, pass it up. If the homeowner is participating in trick-or-treating, they will have their porch light on.
- Do Not go inside the home of someone that is not a friend or family member.
- Walk on the sidewalk if there is one. Don't cut through lawns.
- Walk on the left side (road or sidewalk) facing oncoming traffic.
- Try to trick-or-treat before dark.
- There is safety in numbers. Go with a neighbor or friend and be sure you can handle the number of children you are responsible for.
- Children should not eat candy until you get home and have a chance to check it
On another note...
Until this year, we lived in a very rural area where we had to drive the kids to trick-or-treat. Many of the people in our little town are relatives or friends. So, we used this time to also socialize! We spent time visiting with each household we stopped at. Although the kids may have not received a huge amount of candy (which is fine with me!), we actually set a tradition. As they have gotten older and having children of their own, they still want to trick-or-treat with the people from their youth! I am so glad that most of the households we visit are still living there and look forward to seeing my children and grandchildren. I lost my Dad 3 1/2 years ago and still miss him terribly! We used to end our trick-or-treat route at his house and have homemade soup or chili. These are memories my children and I will always cherish!
So - create your own tradition. Just be safe and enjoy the beautiful fall season!
Janet
