Halloween is an exciting time for kids. For parents, it’s about ensuring that our kids stay safe during trick-or-treat. With dark streets, strangers, and the temptation to share every moment online, it’s crucial to take steps to protect both their physical and digital safety. Here are some helpful tips to make this Halloween fun and safe for everyone.

Supervise younger kids
If your children are younger, always accompany them during trick-or-treat. Keep them close and walk on sidewalks, not roads. If your children are older and want to go with friends, set a curfew and ensure they stick to familiar, well-lit areas.

Use reflective gear
Dressing your child in a bright costume or adding reflective tape to their clothing or candy bag can help them stand out to drivers. Glow sticks or flashlights also help to make them more visible in the dark.

Inspect treats
Before letting your kids dive into their candy stash, inspect it for any unwrapped or suspicious items. It’s best to avoid homemade treats from unfamiliar homes and stick to store-bought, sealed packages.

Set digital boundaries
In today’s world, digital safety is just as important as physical safety. Be mindful about sharing Halloween photos online. Avoid posting pictures that show your child’s face or identifying details like your neighborhood, school, or even the time you went trick-or-treating. If you do share photos, consider using privacy settings to control who can see them.

Discuss stranger safety — online and in-person
Remind your children to never enter a stranger’s home or car, no matter how friendly someone may seem. Plan a route in advance and make sure they know how to contact you in case they get separated.

Additionally, talk to your kids about the importance of digital safety. Remind them not to interact with anyone they don’t know online, especially if they receive messages or friend requests from unfamiliar people through social media, gaming platforms, or apps. Set clear rules about their online interactions and encourage them to come to you if they encounter anything suspicious or uncomfortable online. (Related: Our Family Digital Wellness hub contains additional tips and resources for protecting kids online.)

By taking a few extra precautions, we can help our kids to have a safe and enjoyable Halloween. Let’s keep the focus on fun while being smart about safety — on the streets and online.