Monsters, ghosts, witches and goblins: how does your child see these Halloween icons??
The "scareyness"of Halloween can be fun for children or adults, but children of any age can be negatively impacted by images they are not prepared to process. Evaluating your child's ability to separate fact from fiction is something each parent must assess. Symptoms of "fear overload" can be difficulties sleeping, changes in emotion, separation anxiety, fear of the dark and regression. Focusing on the lighter aspects of Halloween can make the experience less scary: dressing up, trick or treating with neighbors and friends, and family traditions will insure your child will look forward to this time each year.
Check out these tips to insure a Happy Halloween for all.
- Be age appropriate: if hosting a party, separate areas by age with a special area for more spooky fun for the older kids and cater the main activities and decorating to the younger ones. If attending a party or event, call ahead so you know what to expect.
- Manage expectations: follow your child's lead when it comes to joining in. Discuss activities ahead of time, don't push or pressure.
- Keep the lights on: not all the lights, but make sure kids have access to a lighted area. Giving kids their own flashlight makes them feel safe. Attend daytime activities that can provide a positive spin on the holiday.
- Decorate with classic icons and avoid the gore: horrific images can impact even older children and keep them from sleeping for months. Pumpkin faces, black cats and white-sheeted ghosts are familiar Halloween images that can set a festive, slightly spooky scene on your front porch or at your Halloween party without causing unnecessary anxiety.
Above all, enjoy these precious moments with your children. As we all know, they grow up all too fast!
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