Make your Halloween Happy!

Make your Halloween Happy By Adam McCauley

Did you ever hear the saying “Know what to do and do what you know.” Most of the time people don’t apply this. Not because they don’t want to but because they are never programmed to. They were told what to do, but never taught! There is a big difference. We all remember the A,B,C’s because we were taught by singing them, over and over again. Even if you tried now to “say them” without “singing them” it would take more focus.

It’s very sad to hear stories on the news about a child being abducted or to watch talk shows set up "pretend" situations to lure children with potential bad outcomes.   Most of the time, the child’s parents are shocked because they would never think their child would approach a stranger, much less go with them.  It’s not only important to tell your children what and what not to do but more importantly teach them by role playing or quizzing them.  October is a month of fun filled Halloween activities.  Take it from me since my birthday is Halloween, it is a day filled with fond memories of me and my brothers trick or treating with and without my parents.  It seems parents of young ones focus on keeping their children safe themselves instead of one day realizing that their child will trick or treat with friends and not have their parents around.  Teach a child at a young age the safety habits so when they are older and on their own you will know they’re prepared. 

I believe all children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult.  This is important to teach your child so they will have an age in mind of when they can do this on their own.

Make sure, as a precautionary measure, to put reflective tape on costumes, brooms, bikes,        skateboards, and any other costume accessories.  Tell your child why this is important and teach them the consequences of not been seen at night.  Don’t ever think you are going overboard.  It’s hard enough to see children in the daytime since they are smaller than cars.  

Make sure costumes are not too long, and not too short.  Explain to your child the differences and the reasons why.  Walk on sidewalks, and don’t cut through lawns, alleys, or dark areas.  This habit is sometimes broken by parents as well as children.  It seems all too often accidents happen because it’s convenient not to do what is correct.  Remember it’s easier to do wrong than it is to do right.

Go on one side of the street first, instead of crossing over.  It’s a good habit to have to go down one side of the street and then the other, crossing over only once.  This is easy to understand for parents, however it could be seen as a nuisance for kids.  Focus on safety first and teach your children why it’s important to follow the rules.  Remind them that adults have rules as well and when they don’t follow them accidents could happen.

Bring a flashlight, or provide your child with one.  This rule is actually fun. However you must teach your child the dangers as well as the benefits of flashlights.  Flashlights help you see when it is hard to.  Flashlights, however are not meant to be pointed into moving cars or in people’s faces. Discuss the route before leaving.  Tell your child where you are going to go and keep them focused on the same route as always

No Light-No treats---If the house isn’t lit, then move onto the next one.  Remind your child that it is not safe to go where there are no lights.  Not only do the homeowners not want to take part in the activity but they may not want to be bothered. Never enter a house---NO matter what----Just RUN AWAY.  Even if you know the people in the house teach your child that it is not safe to enter any house without their parents being with them.  This is really important for older children who may go on their own and feel they are old enough to handle themselves.

Other Key Tips for Children

If someone grabs you---Drop to the ground and scream to someone to call 911

Don’t go near any cars…

Carry a cell phone and check in with parents

Eat before you go out, so you're not tempted to eat the candy before your parent's check it

Don’t travel alone

If anything seems strange, don’t feel bad about just running away

If anyone asks you your name or how old you are, just run away

In conclusion Halloween is a special event for children as well as their parents.  Remind your child that is up to them to understand the safety rules to make it a fun, enjoyable night for all.  Happy Halloween and a safe trick or treating!

-Renshi Adam McCauley

Go No Sen Karate