Ahhhh, October! The month of ghouls, goblins and pumpkin spice everything. From big cities to tiny towns, Halloween is a favorite holiday of kids of all ages. But, like everything else, trick-or-treating is going to look different this year. Here’s some advice on keeping Halloween spooky and safe.
All About Halloween and COVID-19
The Washington Post has an article in their Parenting section (though we think it’s good advice for anyone who loves Halloween) called, Should kids go trick-or-treating during a pandemic? Experts share their advice.
If you do go trick-or-treating, their doctor-approved advice includes:
- Wear a face mask. (Many costumes could easily incorporate one.)
- Adhere to social-distancing guidelines by standing six feet apart.
- Have a parent accompany children, regardless of age, to hold them accountable with mask wearing and social distancing.
- Avoid congregating around doorsteps and porches.
- Use hand sanitizer after receiving candy from each house.
- Do not eat candy while trick-or-treating — parents should make certain hands are clean before kids start touching their faces and eating candy.
At the CDC, they have an article all about Holiday Celebrations, including Halloween, Dia de los Muertos and Thanksgiving.
If trick-or-treating seems too risky to you, their list of safer alternatives includes:
- Carving or decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them
- Carving or decorating pumpkins outside, at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends
- Decorating your house, apartment, or living space
- Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house admiring Halloween decorations at a distance
- Having a virtual Halloween costume contest
Finally, northjersey.com has a story that includes some common sense advice, no matter where you live. Read, Halloween 2020 is on in NJ: Here are the guidelines you’ll have to follow.
If you have questions about your health, or you’re not feeling well, contact your healthcare provider by phone or visit their website to determine whether you should be seen in-person.
To be notified when our blog is updated with new information, Like our Facebook page.