G’day families! The team at Sorella Early Learning knows that Halloween can be a bit overwhelming, especially with young children. Here’s our guide to creating a happy, safe, and memorable Halloween routine at home.
Start the Day with Something Special
Kick off Halloween morning with a themed brekkie! Orange and black fruit platters with mandarins, blueberries, and banana “ghosts” make it festive without the sugar rush. Let your little ones help prepare; they’ll love being part of the magic, and it sets a positive tone for the day.
Dress-Up Time (Keep It Simple!)
You don’t need expensive costumes. Some of our favourite ideas include:
- Face paint and animal ears
- A sheet with eye holes for a classic ghost
- Mix-and-match dress-ups from their wardrobe
- DIY creations made together from cardboard and craft supplies
The key is letting them choose and keeping it comfortable, nothing too tight, scary, or restrictive.
Afternoon Activities to Burn Energy
Set up some Halloween-themed activities to keep little hands busy:
- Pumpkin decorating (painting is safer than carving for young ones)
- Halloween scavenger hunt around the backyard
- Dance party with silly monster music
- Simple craft activities like making paper plate masks
Early Evening Trick-or-Treating Tips
If you’re heading out, keep it short and sweet:
- Go early while it’s still light (around 5-6 PM)
- Stick to familiar streets with good lighting
- Bring a torch and wear reflective stickers
- Set expectations beforehand, decide how many houses you’ll visit
- Always supervise and check lollies before eating
Wind Down with Calm Activities
After the excitement, help your little ones transition to bedtime:
- Read gentle Halloween stories (nothing too spooky!)
- Have a warm bath with orange and black bath toys
- Sort through their lolly haul together and set limits
- Play quiet Halloween-themed music while they settle
Remember: It’s Okay to Skip It
Not all children enjoy Halloween, and that’s perfectly fine! If your child is anxious about costumes, decorations, or trick-or-treating, don’t force it. You can celebrate in your own way, maybe with a special movie night or a fun dinner instead.
Safety First
A few important reminders:
- Always check lollies before children eat them
- Watch for choking hazards with young children
- Keep face paint and costumes non-toxic and breathable
- Stay together as a family during trick-or-treating
- Make sure costumes don’t drag or obstruct vision
The most important thing? Have fun and follow your child’s lead. Every family’s Halloween looks different, and that’s what makes it special!
Happy Halloween from your friends at Sorella Early Learning! 🎃
Got questions about age-appropriate Halloween activities? Feel free to chat with our educators; we’re always happy to help!