Halloween Safety Tips From Child Development Expert Kendra Morgan

Halloween is on Thursday, and it's a favorite time of year for kids with all the candy and dressing up, but how can we ensure it goes smoothly? Child development expert and founder of Building All Children Kendra Morgan spoke with Dave Davis about it.

Dave: Let’s talk about glow sticks and safety. What's the deal with these?

Kendra: The main thing is ensuring the children are safe. Halloween is such a fun holiday and teaches a lot of developmental skills, but safety is key. Glow sticks are cheap and easy to use; you can attach them to costumes so kids can be seen at night.

Dave: Setting expectations for children is also important. What should parents consider?

Kendra: Yes, it’s crucial to establish simple rules. Trick-or-treating teaches kids many skills, like making eye contact and using manners. Children might change their minds about their costumes, so it’s important to listen to them. If they’re uncomfortable with how they look or feel, it’s okay to let them change.

Dave: And what about fears? Some kids might be scared of things like clowns.

Kendra: Right, kids don’t have fully developed reality skills, so if they’re really afraid, reassure them. Pull them away from whatever is causing fear. Many kids don’t enjoy Halloween because it can be scary, so it’s essential to help them feel safe and explain that it's all make-believe.

Dave: Let’s talk about candy. How should parents handle it?

Kendra: Every family has different rules about candy. Parents should look through it since kids are getting treats from strangers. Let them pick out a few pieces, and set expectations for how much they can have.

Dave: And you have some costume ideas?

Kendra: Yes, we have simple costumes. For example, a pizza costume can be fun, especially for picky eaters. Costumes like veterinarians and chefs allow for pretend play beyond Halloween, helping kids build skills year-round.

Dave: You mentioned pumpkin carving earlier. What skills does that teach?

Kendra: Pumpkin carving is a great sensory activity. You can smell, taste, and touch the pumpkin's insides. Kids can count seeds, hammer in golf tees, and draw different faces on the outside. It’s a fantastic way to encourage development.

Dave: And safety is crucial during carving, right?

Kendra: Yes, we have to keep kids safe. For younger children, they can draw on the pumpkins outside instead of carving. Use safe tools, like paint sticks, for decorating.

Dave: You also have a podcast launching today?

Kendra: Yes. It’s called the "Rise and Build" podcast. Our goal is to help families strengthen their bonds. We’ve launched a few episodes already, including my story and insights from various experts.