Teenagers often find themselves in a tough spot for Halloween. They’re not interested in anything that feels too juvenile, but they still long to have fun and enjoy the night. Sometimes, this can lead to poor decisions on their part. However, you can keep things under control and provide them with a great evening when you know what steps to take ahead of time.
Remind Them About a Costume
Your teen is engrossed in other things, including sports, changing hormones, and keeping up with schoolwork. It’s a tough time, and they tend to forget about Halloween until the last week of October. Go ahead and remind your growing kid about the pending holiday and suggest that he or she start considering costumes early. They don’t have to choose something expensive because online retailers have good values and sizable selections on Halloween costumes for teens.
Host the Party
If you’re worried about your kid getting in trouble at a friend’s party, then offer to host one at your house. It will take a little more time and effort on your part, but you’ll be able to keep an eye on everything and ensure that the kids are safe. Sit down with your teen ahead of time to discuss a cohesive theme so that you’ll know what to focus on with decorations and the menu.
Have a Candy Hunt
Some kids feel like they’re just too big to go out and knock on doors for candy, but they’re more than happy to hunt for it at home! Create a safe and fun game by hiding candy around the exterior or your home. Hand your kids their own bags and flashlights, and then tell them to gather up as much as they can. Divide them into groups, and consider giving a prize to the team that picks up the most.
Scary Movie Night
Consider a scary movie night for your teen and her friends. You can rent the movie, help them make popcorn, and toss in a big bowl of candy for fun. They’ll be inside and safe, yet they’ll still have a blast watching one terrifying movie after another. You might even want to plan a little scary prank just to keep them on their toes.
Trick or Treating Safety
Big kids think they’re invincible, but you know better. Your teen still needs some reflective tape or accessories on a costume because drivers aren’t always paying attention. Have your son or daughter charge the cell phone beforehand, and remind them to keep the device safely stowed in a pocket so that they can watch their surroundings instead of the next text message. You can also get an app on the phone that allows you to track them. Before the kids go out, review the local laws and remind them of the rules regarding trick or treating.
Take a Field Trip
Check out the local haunted houses and see which ones will appeal to your teen the most. You can stretch out the festivities by going to the haunted houses and hayrides during the weeks leading up to Halloween. The entire family will enjoy this, and you just might create some new traditions. You can also look for different community activities like costume balls, haunted tours, and special nights at local amusement parks.
Bigger kids can have fun on Halloween, and it’s possible for you to still keep them safe. You’ll all enjoy the holiday more, and your teen will have a chance to be a kid once more. Join them in the fun so that you can create wonderful memories as a whole family.
Anica Oaks is a freelance writer who hails from San Francisco. When she’s not writing, she’s enjoying her time outside with her dogs. Keep up with her on Twitter @anicaoaks.
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