When I was a class teacher, Halloween was one of the funniest days of the year. The children brought their costumes to school in a bag and then changed them at recess. After recess we had a parade around the yard so everyone could see the other costumes. There was also a prize for the best costume and the best decorated pumpkin. Those were great memories and I still have the photos to remember them by.
Now that I’m not teaching anymore, I still love Halloween, but in a different way. I have grandchildren and children of friends who are part of my Halloween celebration. What I really love is throwing a party on Halloween or the day before.
It is so much fun to decorate and plan these types of events. Even very young children delight in the idea of throwing a party. This allows my creative side to emerge as we decide together what kinds of decorations, foods, and activities there will be. Planning it with the kids makes for a lasting memory.
With children under the age of six, be sure not to scare them. Even if they know it’s all a lie, they sometimes have nightmares or lingering thoughts about something they saw or heard. Instead, plan a party with the sights and sounds they’re most used to, like cats and pumpkins.
The food associated with Halloween tends to be all sugar based, so get creative with this and make sure something nutritious is served. You can always dress up a hot dog or sandwich to make it suitable as a Halloween meal.
The most important thing to remember is that Halloween is a time for fun and friends. Take pictures so your party will be remembered for years to come.