INDIANAPOLIS — Halloween is quickly approaching, and as families finalize their plans, one counselor with Indianapolis Public Schools is asking parents to make the most of the holiday.
"Safety is the primary concern for parents and the entire community on that particular night," Dr. Lori Hart said.
Steps like adding reflective wear to all layers of a costume can help keep children safe, Hart said.
Safety, however, is only part of the preparation. Hart said communication is also key.
"Perhaps there has been a year or two where the memories of their student looked a little bit different," Hart said. "The spacing looked a little bit different. The activities looked a little bit different. As students come out in more and more volume for their Halloween evening, there can be some nerves and some worries to work through, and those are opportunities to communicate."
Hart's advice for parents is to prepare early. Start having conversations now about what children can expect during Halloween events at school and in the community.
"It can be overwhelming, and some children could be very brave that you see out in the community trying to enjoy the evening," Hart said. "Also, there is a wide range of spookiness that you will see from house to house or street to street."
Hart said building an established routine and traditions can also help children feel at ease during holidays, especially when schedules and environments are abnormal.
Plus, allowing children to help in the decision-making process can also help calm the nerves.
"That's always best practice with helping students with worry and anxiety or unexpected feelings," Hart said. "It helps give a sense of control, ownership and understanding when they can help you plan."
In addition to having a routine, Hart said having empathy is equally as important. Her advice is to never assume how your child, or another child, is feeling about their spooky surroundings on Halloween.
Hart said validating feelings, especially for older children, is a big part of that.
"Our environments are always changing," Hart said. "What they see on social media, what they see electronically, what they see digitally, the social-emotional environment post-COVID – those are variables that, very much, could be changing on a regular basis."
When it comes to teenagers, Hart said Hoosiers may notice more older children partaking in Halloween festivities this year.
She said that's because the COVID-19 pandemic may have robbed them of a few years.
"It's a fun and healthy activity for teenagers to be doing," Hart said.
When it comes to teenagers trick-or-treating without parents, Hart said, "I think the most important thing is to never assume, as far as their safety precautions and them understanding the expectations of the evening."
In general, Hart said special events, like Halloween, can help build relationships with your children through an open and honest environment.
"National Communicate with Your Kid Month is an ideal time to strengthen your bond with your child and help them navigate the spookiness of Halloween while having a great time," Hart said.