Things aren’t quite what they used to be. The good old days of kids playing out on the streets until dark without a care are gone. Unfortunately now parents have to be extra cautious when it comes to the safety of their children and almost no one can be trusted. With Halloween trick or treating being all about going door to door of strangers’ homes and being given candy that may or may not be safe, many parents are turning to alternatives to keep the Halloween spirit alive while protecting their kids from potential dangers.

Church/Social Group Trunk Trick or Treating
Lots of churches and social groups are organizing traditional trick or treating for kids but at a planned location (usually wherever the group meets). Then they have everyone park in the parking lot in a specific configuration creating rows of cars that kids can walk through like aisles. People are asked to then open their trunks and pass out candy from the trunk or back of their car. This way the kids are all within a safe distance of their family, can be seen by people who care about them at all times and it brings the adults together for a bit of socializing as well.

Parent Hosted Halloween Parties
Bringing the kids together at one person’s house is the new alternative to trick or treating and this isn’t just for the older kids, younger children’s Halloween parties have become quite popular. It’s a safe environment, the kids still have lots of fun and get to dress up plus it’s easy for everyone else (those not hosting) as they just drop off the kids or stay and socialize with other parents all in one central location. Another plus, there’s less candy so the kids aren’t consuming just sugar all night long, they eat real food too.,

Retail Center Scavenger Hunts
Lots of shopping centers are tuning into the family friendly activities and the increase in sales hosting such events can bring. Many retail locations are banding together and putting on scavenger hunts, trick or treating events and other holiday oriented activities all completely free because it drives traffic to the location and makes people more apt to visit their locations and make purchases. So while it may be sales oriented the events themselves are a lot of fun for the kids and are usually well put together so everything is safe, clean and friendly.

City Costume Parades
Most larger cities host costume parades of some sort. These are a tradition for many individuals and children find great joy and amusement in being paraded around town in their costumes. It’s a wonderful celebration for all those involved and the perfect occasion for lots of picture taking for those shutterbug parents and grandparents.

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Friend and Family Barbecues
Just making Halloween into any other holiday bash is a recent trend. It’s a reason to celebrate and have a casual barbecue. The kids can dress up and be given candy as well as other baked treats and goodies. Plus the parents can socialize, have some cocktails if they so choose, play games, watch a game or whatever else they desire. It’s laid back fun in a familiar environment where everything is protected.

No mater what you choose to do for Halloween you will be sure to find something that suits you and your child in an environment you’re comfortable with. Remember your child’s safety is the most important things and should never be compromised.