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Halloween with Grandkids

Detailed Pumpkin Sketch
Halloween Costume Fun

Halloween is one of those holidays made for grandparents and grandkids—costumes, pumpkins, candy, silly games, spooky decorations and plenty of opportunities to make memories together. Whether you're helping pick the perfect costume, decorating Grandma and Grandpa's house, planning a Halloween party or heading out for trick-or-treating, we've gathered ideas and resources to make Halloween more fun, memorable and safe for everyone.

Safe Trick-or-Treating With Grandkids

Have Fun. Stay Together. Be Seen.

  • Make costumes easy to see. Add reflective material or carry flashlights when trick-or-treating after dark. Costumes should fit properly and not drag where children can trip. Also consider flame-resistant costume materials and making sure masks don't restrict vision.

  • Stay together. Younger grandkids should be accompanied by a responsible adult, while older children should use a buddy system and stay with their group.

  • Use sidewalks and crosswalks. Cross at intersections or crosswalks whenever possible and watch for turning vehicles. Be aware that drivers may have a hard time seeing children, especially if children appear unexpectedly around parked cars, driveways and neighborhood streets.

  • Choose well-lit routes. GrandKid Central recommends trick or treating on well-lit streets and only visiting homes with porch lights on. Strongly warn children not to enter a stranger's home or vehicle to receive treats.

  • Check treats before eating them. Grandparents or parents should examine treats, and special attention should be given to small novelty items around young children because of choking hazards.

  • Ask Mom or Dad first. Before Halloween, grandparents should know about food allergies, dietary restrictions, household rules, medications or any other instructions the parents want followed.

Wholesome Family Halloween Trick-or-Treating.png

The objective isn't to take the fun out of Halloween. It's to handle the boring grown-up details so the grandkids can concentrate on the important stuff—costumes, candy and deciding which house gives out the full-size bars.

Choosing a Halloween Costume for Your Grandkid

GRANDPARENT TIP: Look for something they'll genuinely enjoy wearing, but make sure they can walk comfortably, see clearly, carry their treat bag and add layers underneath if Halloween night turns cold.

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