Choosing safe costumes is important for all children. Children with learning disabilities may need your help in making the best choices. These tips and suggestions can help you make the best choice to keep your child safe.
Safe Halloween Costumes
- Plan appropriate costumes for your child. He can help, but you will need to ensure safety and appropriateness.
- Help your child choose or make a costume that fits well. Avoid long garments that can cause tripping or make movement difficult.
- Consider makeup instead of masks, as masks can obstruct vision. Masks that cover the entire head can also impair hearing and obstruct breathing. Wigs and scarves can blow into children's faces and block vision. If you feel you must use a mask, wig, or scarf, check it well in advance to ensure that your child can see and hear adequately while using it. If not, leave it at home.
- Avoid costume props in general. Fake swords, pitchforks, and witches' brooms may be neat accessories, but they can be hazardous on the trick or treat route. They can cause tripping and may inadvertently poke someone in the eye. If your child must carry something other than his treat bag, make it a flashlight.
- Choose costumes with light colored fabrics that are visible in the dark. Reflective tape is a good option to make children more visible along streets. If your child's costume is dark, have him wear glow-in-the dark light sticks, necklaces, or bracelets. One or both of you should carry a flashlight.
- Look for flame resistant costumes, and check labels before buying. Remember that flame resistant fabrics can still burn, but they are designed to sort of melt rather than ignite and snuff out when removed from flames. Most importantly, just avoid flames altogether.
- Don't use candles. Whether your costume is flame resistant or not, candles are an unnecessary safety risk. Battery-powered electric candles are a safer substitute.
- Choose a light colored treat bag, and decorate it with reflective tape or glow-in-the dark necklaces attached to the handles.
Bags or sacks also should be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. You can find reflective tape at bike shops, hardware stores, and large chain discount stores where costumes or biking supplies are sold.
- Avoid soft slippers, high heels, and flimsy costume shoes. Choose well-fitting, sturdy shoes. Your child's regular sneakers or other weather-appropriate shoes are often the best choices.
