October 21, 2003

Scary Costumes Shouldn't Mean A Scary Holiday

BLACKSBURG -- Dressing up in scary costumes is a traditional part of Halloween, but making the holiday scary for small children is not something family members want.

More Information Communicating with Young Children

In letting their young ones participate in the holiday, parents should take several precautions so that all have a good time. Pre-schoolers should not be allowed to open the door to trick-or-treaters. Monster and other frightening costumes may severely upset these children.

Andrew J. Stremmel, associate professor of family and child development at Virginia Tech, notes, "two- and three-year-old children have a difficult time distinguishing fantasy from reality. Pre-schoolers might mistake a costumed trick-or-treater for a real monster.

Older family members should do the greeting, only letting pre-schoolers see the trick-or-treaters if they know it is not scary.

Stremmel also advised that family members who do decide to dress up themselves allow the children to watch the process. That way, they can understand that the person in costume is still a real person.

It is also important to ensure that young trick-or-treaters are kept safe. Youngsters should wear costumes with bright colors to be visible when walking near streets where drivers need to see them. If dark costumes are worn, place reflective material on the costumes.

Flashlights are also a necessity. They will help not only with visibility, but will aid children in avoiding potholes and curbs that might cause them to trip.

In addition, young children need to be escorted by an adult. Being with your children while they trick-or-treat not only keeps them safe, but also keeps the holiday something the whole family can enjoy.

Contact: Andrew Stremmel
Virginia Tech
(540) 231-4671
astremme@vt.edu

Contact: Mary Ann H. Johnson
Agriculture and Extension Communications
Virginia Tech
(540) 231-6975
jnayram@vt.edu

Writer: John Rougeux, senior from Louisville, KY
Agriculture and Extension Communications intern
Virginia Tech
Department of English

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