October 2024 Edition

Family & Consumer Sciences
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When Halloween gets too scary

Spooky decorations and scary costumes can be frightening for children, especially during Halloween. That is why it is important to acknowledge and validate your child’s fears rather than dismissing them. To put them at ease, you can start by explaining that these decorations and costumes are meant for fun and aren’t real. Show them how costumes are made and allow them to explore the decorations during daylight to help understand these items.
When trick-or-treating, choose familiar areas and consider going out while it’s still light. Avoid houses with excessively frightening decorations or loud noises. If your child feels scared, encourage them to take breaks, and never force them to ignore their fears. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, these steps can help children feel more secure and enjoy the festivities more comfortably.
Some Halloween decorations and costumes can lead to increased fears and nightmares. Establishing a comforting bedtime routine can help mitigate these issues. Reading a favorite story, using a nightlight, or playing soothing music can create a calming environment for your child. If your child experiences nightmares, reassure them of their safety. Sit with them, discuss the dream, and help them distinguish between fantasy and reality. Sometimes, drawing a picture of the nightmare can help children express and process their fears.
Encourage open communication, letting your child know they can always talk to you about their fears. Avoid minimizing their feelings; instead, offer support and understanding. Role-playing scenarios in which  they confront their fears in a safe and controlled way can also build confidence. By thoughtfully addressing their fears and providing reassurance, parents can help their children navigate spooky situations with more confidence and less anxiety.
References:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2020). Halloween Safety Tips. Retrieved from aap.org
Child Mind Institute. (2024). Taking Halloween by the Horns. Retrieved from https://childmind.org/article/taking-halloween-by-the-horns/
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Nightmares: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org
Source: David Weisenhorn, Ph.D., Specialist for Parenting and Child Development

 

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