To trick or treat or not – as we head into Halloween weekend, that is the question on the minds of most parents. While some parents are opting to skip out on trick or treating on the spookiest night of the year for fear of real scares in the form of coronavirus, others are taking precautions to continue some sense of normalcy for their kids during the pandemic.
While some may opt to allow kids to pick up bags from lawns or tables only (+ see more creative ways to trick or treat during COVID), others will participate in outdoor parties or trunk-or-treat events with cars spaced far apart and a limited guest list.
My own magician and Wonder Woman (1984) will hit up the streets near our house, looking to fill their buckets (and this is non-negotiable — bring back a Reese’s for mommy). If you’re planning on heading out, check out this information on the safest practices from the NJ Department of Health and make sure to check your town rules about trick or treating.
Outdoor Door to Door Trick or Treating
“Those who plan to trick-or-treat should limit their groups to current household members, consider staying local, and limit the number of houses on their route,” says the NJ Department Of Health. “Social distancing should be practiced between all who are not in the same household.”
If you’re putting out treats, try to limit interactions with trick-or-treaters and wear a mask if you’re planning to answer the door. (A costume mask does NOT count as an acceptable face covering).
A better option would be to leave out a treat bowl or even better, arrange the candy so kids don’t have to stick their hands in the same bowl. (Remember, the “take one” sign is even more crucial this year!).
Neighbors can also make a plan together, such as telling people that a porch light on means you’re participating, and off means stay away.
Outdoor Trunk or Treating
If you’re attending an event where children go car to car instead of house to house be sure to limit the number of participating cars.
“Ensure outdoor area has sufficient space per car to avoid overcrowding and to allow adequate space for social distancing,” says the DOH. “Design event in a long line, rather than a circle to ensure social and physical distancing to discourage crowding.”
Halloween Parties
“Avoid large indoor or outdoor parties, which would be subject to the limitations currently in effect on indoor and outdoor gatherings,” says the DOH. No close contact activities at the party such as bobbing for apples (now that’s one old school party game we’ll surely never see again!).
If parents, kids and neighbors work together and use common sense, everyone can have a safe and fun time without any real scares! How are you celebrating? Tell us in the comments.