“Trick or treat!” I once heard hollered out my gate back when I wasn’t yet a father, or even remotely close to being one. But yet, I bought the candy (it’s always never enough, right?) and prepared myself for an early evening of little monsters of all shapes, sizes, with their parents or yayas watching mirthfully from a safe distance, possibly hoping to sneak a piece or two of candy from the timeless plastic pumpkin buckets.
I emerged out of my living room dressed in an oddly loose fitting Superman costume, looking like the man of steel went completely gangsta’ and proceeded to hand out toothsome treats to waiting hands. Utterly satisfying, as I remember my dear mother and I walking along the neighborhood doing the exact same thing, many, but not too many years ago. She’d hold my hand and make sure I was crossing the streets right, calibrating my costume every block or so. Then she’d give me a knowing smile and say “The peppermint ones are mine, okay?”
So Halloween is here, and it’s time for a new generation of ghouls to roam around in search for dental nightmares, but remembering a few things from my mother that made sure I was always alright, as well as a few my wife and I have made a point of doing for my two-year-old son, Brayden; here are a few guidelines to make sure all goes well during this time with your family. And for everyone’s sake, I’m not going out as Edward Cullen! (Jasper maybe?)
Ten Sensible Tips
1. If you are not personally bringing your child to the Halloween activities, make sure that the yaya or guardian has a fully charged cell phone battery, ample load, and has had enough rest the night before.
2. October in the Philippines brings unpredictable rain showers, so an extra umbrella or small rain coat wouldn’t hurt if your plans are outdoors.
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3. About the rainy season, dengue is still a plausible threat. Apply products like Off Lotion on your child or children, and to yourself as well. Pocket a disposable sachet for convenience.
4. This may sound a little silly, but it never hurt to bring a whistle around for kids to put in their pockets. If it’s a big crowd, it can help you locate your child, and even if many whistles are blaring, it would still be of help.
5. Regarding costumes, find ones that are not abrasive to the skin, or ones that are comfortable enough to wear without your child getting too warm or too cold. Also, try to avoid strings or necklaces. They are definite and surprisingly innocuous strangulation hazards, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (www.aap.org) if a foot or longer (six inches for us). In that light, we don’t allow my son to wear necklaces and we keep ribbons, curtain drawstrings and the like away from him.
6. Make sure that everyone has enough water to stay hydrated throughout this little adventure. There will be plenty of walking, running, playing, so fluids are essential.
7. Check out your child’s shoes. Are they comfortable enough? Shelve the costume shoes in favor of regular rubber soled shoes to avoid slipping, blistering and sprains.
8. Before everyone trots out, the family should sit down and discuss safety rules, especially when guardians are involved. Simple things like crossing the street and being in constant communication will allow for greater peace of mind. Also, watch out for food allergies.
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9. Outdoor events are always fun, but nowadays, there are a plethora of options. Mall parties, hotel events, private parties and similar abound. Consider if your child wants to attend these instead, or if it will allow you to spend more quality time with him or her.
10. One other thing for outdoor events, hurting animals, or provoking them is never a good thing to do. Aside from teaching children values of respect for life, you will also protect them from bodily harm.
There it is! A ten-bit list that will surely ensure that your child will be alright during the long awaited night of horror. This is just a guide, adjust accordingly! Maybe after the festivities, you can watch a G-rated scary themed home video together, anything without content to give you all nightmares…and with that in mind, ration the candy and keep those teeth clean!
Have a very scary …but safe Halloween!
Photo from flickr.com
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