Sweet “Trick or Treat” Etiquette

Susan A Vernick

Thewildly anticipated one night per year, where you go door to door, begging for food, and it’s perfectly okay. Yes! It’s Halloween, All Hollow’s Eve, Treat of Treat, or whatever you choose to call it; kids across the country look forward to this sweet & scary holiday. So, avoid being witchy in character and follow these simple rules to make a fun and safe Halloween!

No Scary

Manners

: When approaching a home, only trick or treat at those homes with their front porch lights on. When lights are off, they are not participating in Halloween for various reasons. And that’s okay! There are always plenty of other homes handing out candy. When you approach a home and ring the doorbell, do so once or moderately knock. Say “trick or treat" and “thank you” once the homeowner has handed out candy. Try to talk to your children beforehand and ask them not to grab candy (I know this is not easy) and wait for the candy to be handed to them. Of course, tiny children may not always get this right, and that’s okay. It is a learning process for your little ghosts and goblins, a-hem, I mean prince

Safety First:

Homeowners, do your best to make your property safe for children. Lighted and illuminated walkways are a must, as well as cleared sidewalks and safe driveways. No head injuries or injured limbs are wanted unless they are part of a Halloween costume. Trick-or-treaters, avoid wearing too long clothing, especially when walking near jack-o’ lanterns. Also, parents, carry a flashlight or wear reflective gear if you are trick or treating after dark. Lastly, try to keep pets contained and not charging at children for both the pets’ and children’s safety.

Trick or Treating Teens:

Although there is much debate about how old is too old, ask yourself, “Wouldn’t you rather teens dress up for a little fun with friends rather than partying where unforeseen circumstances may arise?

Or, on roadways driving at night where our kiddos are scrambling across roads and driveways? So, should a teen knock at your door, please offer them a piece of candy with a smile, not criticism. Teens: Remember to say “thank you” and be frightfully polite.

Candy, Candy & Candy

: Yes, you could be that house that hands out apples, books, or toothbrushes, and the change could be welcome. But do not be surprised to hear a couple of groans here and there. Although the intentions are good, the expectations are high for Kit Kats, Snickers, and Peanut Butter Cups. So, take it with a grain of salt or a spoonful of sugar! Also, when handing out candy, ensure they are wrapped separately and sealed. Try to avoid handing out hard candy since it is not safe for our littlest trick-or-treaters.

No Pranks:

Although it may seem “fun” at the time, it is rarely fun for the receiver. Not only can it be unpleasant, but it could be criminal. Avoid toilet papering, egging, or smashing pumpkins or anything along those lines. You may end up in a striped uniform or orange jumpsuit, not a costume, if you are not careful (okay, we are exaggerating.)

Have Fun!

Embrace the chaotic, fun nature of Halloween and the constant “interruptions” of this yearly event. It is a fun night to connect with neighbors, laugh, and smile as the constant army of soldiers, Marvel characters, princesses, and historical characters ring your doorbell with big smiles- yelling, “Trick Or Treat!”

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