Halloween is right around the corner, and we all want to give our kids a spooky, fun night. We also want everyone to stay safe. The Delta variant is spreading, and we need to remain vigilant, but we can still have a great time. Here are a few ideas.
Make masks part of the costume. This is a great way to stay safe and encourage children to use their cloth face coverings as part of their costume (think surgeon or superhero!). However, be wary of painting the masks since some paints contain toxins. Also, remember that a costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth face-covering unless it has multiple layers of breathable fabric and covers the mouth and nose snugly. Also, please do not wear a costume mask over a cloth face-covering because it can make breathing more difficult.
Spooky movie night: Celebrate with a movie night and dress as your favorite characters. Please do this as a family at home or consider letting your child watch with their friends while video chatting, with everyone starting the movie simultaneously.
Pumpkin Carving is one Halloween tradition that’s as safe and fun as ever. As always, be careful to avoid pumpkin carving injuries. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting. When the carving is done, consider putting a battery-operated light rather than an open-flame candle inside. Roast the seeds from the pumpkin for a healthy snack!
Look for community events focused on safe ways to have fun. Stay away from crowds and clustering, and follow safe distance rules even when outdoors.
Avoid indoor events such as haunted houses. A local haunted forest or corn maze may be a better option, as long as cloth face-covering use, physical distancing, and one-way walk-through is enforced. If you think there may be screaming, leave extra distance to lower the risk of spreading the respiratory virus. If you go to a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, use hand sanitizer before and after touching what you pick.
If you give out treats, consider sitting outside and lining up individually prepackaged goodies on a table for children to take (don’t forget to wear your mask!). Or, think about other ways you can safely avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
