Not every family will celebrate holidays in the same way. For a variety of reasons, families mark holidays in their own way, and those choices should always come without judgment by others. The Halloween holiday is one of those holidays that some families will celebrate, while others will not. Over the years, the way in which the holiday is celebrated has changed and I applaud the changes as it gives families choices about how to engage.
Some children will dress in costume and travel throughout the neighborhood requesting or has been known, begging, for a piece of candy. In our quest for safety and health, some families have decided to attend trunk or treats in the full daylight to celebrate the holiday. The children can dress up and “beg” for candy, yet the celebration is organized and supervised so that parents can feel better about their child’s safety. According to the Academy of Pediatrics, thinking through costume safety, food allergies, and safety around the home are all important aspects to consider. The National Safety Council also provides helpful information to prepare parents to celebrate with safety.
Another change we may see at Halloween is the transition from candy to other forms of treats including stickers, pencils, and other swag that steer clear from the sugary treats of past Halloweens. As the first educator of their children, I recognize parents who make brave decisions about how to spend precious time with their families at the holidays. Finding ways to celebrate that include extended family and friends may be more meaningful than simply following tradition for traditions sake.
