Halloween Tips for Toddlers

Many parents love Halloween, but the costumes, crowds, and chaos can overwhelm little ones. Share these three tips with caregivers:

1. Prioritize comfort. An itchy, hot, or restrictive costume is a meltdown waiting to happen. Suggest something that goes over regular clothes, like a simple onesie, and face paint instead of masks, which can be hot, disorienting, and scary.

2. Prepare for the spooky stuff. Toddlers can't always tell real from pretend. Parents can read Halloween books together, show that store masks are just plastic and fabric, and do a practice trick-or-treat at home.

3. Keep it short and sweet. Encourage families to eat dinner first, go out while it's light, and be home in time for bedtime. Less is more!