Keep Your Little Monsters Safe and Well This Halloween

Five Health and Safety Tips for “Groan-Ups”

With spooky costumes and gooey treats, Halloween is a fun time for kids of all ages. As the haunting day approaches, it’s wise to review some “tricks” for “groan-ups” who want to keep their little ghouls and goblins from overdoing it on candy, and make Halloween as safe as possible. 

1.  Limit Indulgence

It’s okay to let your kids indulge a little bit, but choose a certain number of pieces of candy that your children can eat that night, and save the rest for other days. Another agreeable option is to offer a swap of their remaining candy for a new toy of their choice.

2.  Fill ‘Em Up

Before trick-or-treating, serve your kids a healthy dinner so they won’t be as tempted to eat candy before you have a chance to inspect it. 

3.  When in Doubt, Throw it Out

Although candy tampering is rare, parents should still check all candy before allowing their kids to eat. If your child begins to show suspicious symptoms or behavior after eating Halloween candy, call the California Poison Action Line at 1-800-222-1222. It's open 24/7 with free, fast and private counsel.

Remember that glow sticks can be harmful if chewed or swallowed. If one breaks, wash hands right away.

4.  Keep an Eye on Toddlers

Young children can choke on small candies. If a piece of candy is small enough to fit through a cardboard toilet paper tube, it is too small for a toddler. Little ones are also more likely to mistake medicine for candy, so store medications and vitamins in a cabinet that is out of reach.  

5.  Escape the Bellyaches

Consuming too much sugary candy can cause tummy pain, nausea and vomiting (in addition to the risks of tooth decay). Many parents worry about a “sugar high” from candy, but the real culprit is usually the caffeine found in the many candies, especially chocolate. Moderation is the key to avoiding overindulgence that could end this festive time on a miserable note – plus you (er, your child) will have a stash of treats to enjoy in the weeks ahead.

Consider that children aren’t the only little creatures to protect. Keep candy away from pets. Some treats, especially chocolate, can be poisonous to them.