by Melissa Spring
With Halloween just around the corner and it being a favorite of my 3 and it being a favorite of my 3 year old, I have been thinking a lot about how to keep my kiddos safe this year. I generally would just use my common sense BUT with 2 kids this time around there are some more logistics to think about.
Pumpkin carving safety: This year my kiddo picked out a 51 lb pumpkin!!! Carving was going to be a huge chore SO I made sure that daddy was here to help. Mom and dad opened up the pumpkin sans the kid THEN we let him into the kitchen to scoop out all of the guts and help draw a face. He was not all that happy when we made him leave the kitchen for the rest of the carving but with how excited the kids get it is defiantly the safe way to carve. No cut fingers! I would also suggest getting a pumpkin light to illuminate instead of a candle, eliminates the fire hazard and keeps curious little fingers safe.
Costumes: Kids costumes are generally safe (make sure the kiddos can see out of the eye holes) but I think we all get consumed in the excitement of the holiday and forget that the face paint is NASTY and filled with chemicals. Skip the face paints all together or search out other options.
Trick or Treating: Have small kids, take them to a local mall or community event to trick or treat. It is a safer alternative to taking small children out trick or treating with the bigger kids. Still want to take them out? Make sure to use flash lights, go into well-lit neighborhoods and try to stay with a group. Lots of costumes are really hard to see for the drivers that are out and I know my kiddo will want to run from house to house so make sure you have a good grip on tiny hands.
CANDY: Here are some great ideas for all of that extra candy that will make its way into the house. There are many dentists that do a candy exchange (check with your dentist) or you can do your own. We let the kiddos pick out 10 pieces of candy and then give them $5 for the rest (then I hide it and eat it myself haha) so that they can go and pick out something other than candy! Many dentists are now saying it is okay to enjoy your treats but make it chocolate or another candy that will melt quickly and not stay on your teeth. Make sure to brush after snacking. OH one more thing, check all candy to make sure it is still sealed before eating!
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