Halloween is a night kids look forward to all year long — the costumes, the candy, the spooky decorations! But for parents, it can feel like a balancing act between letting kids enjoy the fun and making sure everyone stays safe. The good news? With a little preparation, your family can have a frightfully fun (and safe!) Halloween.

Here are some playful but practical safety tips for parents:

1. Light Up the Night

Dark costumes might look spooky, but they can make it harder for drivers to see your little monsters. Add glow sticks, reflective tape, or even a flashlight wand to your child's costume. Bonus: glow sticks double as a fun accessory!

2. Check the Candy Before the Feast

As tempting as it is to dive right into the trick-or-treat bag, remind kids to wait until you've had a chance to check for anything that looks suspicious or unwrapped. Also, if your child has food allergies, check the ingredients to avoid an allergic reaction. Then let them indulge (within reason, of course). Pro tip: stash a few of their favorites aside for a surprise later in the week.

3. Costumes That Pass the Test

When choosing costumes, think comfort and safety. Make sure masks don't block vision, capes don't drag, and shoes are made for walking (because those candy-filled laps around the neighborhood add up!).

4. Street-Smart Goblins

Review road safety before heading out. Stick to sidewalks, cross at corners, and remind kids to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. An adult should always accompany younger children, while older children can trick-or-treat in groups on their own.

5. Set a Curfew (and a Candy Limit)

If your kids are going out with friends, set a clear time to be home. And while candy is half the fun, setting limits helps avoid tummy aches — and ensures the candy haul lasts longer than one night.

6. Keep It Fun and Spooky

Safety doesn't mean you can't have fun! Play Halloween music while you walk, snap lots of costume photos, and consider handing out glow-in-the-dark bracelets to other kids in the neighborhood.


Elizabeth H. Dennison, MD, FAAP, Lexington Pediatric Practice