Fill up the candy bowl, it is almost Halloween night!
Over the last week I’ve seen a lot of tips on how to have fun on Halloween, while keeping the kids on schedule.
My amazing colleagues in the pediatric sleep space have provided useful information that will keep the Halloween magic flowing, while keeping the kiddos in check (for the most part.) I have a slightly different take on Halloween planning. I find it’s not so much Halloween night that throws my family off, but the school day leading up to trick-or-treating and the evening that follows.
Halloween will inevitably throw off what would normally be a regular school day and school night. Although I do some extra planning, I mostly use shortcuts that will allow me to spend time on the things that matter most to my family.
Halloween Night Before / Morning Prep
Give yourself extra time on the morning of Halloween for costume prep. Have the costumes laid out from the night before, with all the makeup, hair products, and costume pieces you will need. Your kids will not just be throwing on a pair of jeans or a school uniform and it’s really hard to clasp a safety pin when you’re on a time limit.
Halloween After School
Kids are exhausted when they come home from school on Halloween. Usually they spend a portion of the day dancing or marching in a parade around the school and they are stimulated to the max. Encourage them to get out of their costumes for a while and rest before going trick-or-treating. Expect that they will need you to touch up their costumes as well. Giving them a little bit of downtime will prevent possible meltdowns later in the evening.
Take Out
Take Out. This is a non negotiable. We will be having takeout. We will not be meal prepping for Halloween because that will result in dishes. Trick-or-treating takes time. I like to allot at least an hour or two to trick-or-treating so my children enjoy their night and have great memories. I also enjoy chatting with my neighbors, looking at all the scary decorations, and enjoying the crisp fall weather. On Halloween night I would rather do those things than wash dishes.
The Kids Will Want To Eat Candy at Night
Come to peace with it. On Halloween candy is everywhere and even adults cannot resist a few fun size treats. I usually tell my kids that they can have 3 or 4 treats and they can pick 2 treats for their lunch boxes the next day. It seems to keep them happy.
Don’t Skip The Bedtime Routine
I know it’s tempting to try to get your kids to bed on time, especially if you are also overstimulated but if you are too speedy with the routine, it can backfire. After an exciting and tiring day, kids often need more time to wind down before they can sleep.
Don’t Stress – One Late Night Won’t Hurt
Remember that Halloween only comes once a year. It’s ok if the kids go to bed a little late or are off their schedule for one night. Sleep is important but it is equally important to enjoy a few treats with family and friends.
Happy Halloween Everyone!