Children and adults alike look forward to Halloween each year. From the costumes to the sweet treats, there’s plenty to get excited about. But Halloween also provides the perfect opportunity for kids to get involved in the community as well. Use these tips to help your child think of the holiday as yet another way to spread a festive spirit, with less emphasis on candy and more emphasis on giving back.
Collect donations for a cause. If your kids plan to trick-or-treat, talk to them about going door-to-door on Halloween night and collecting coins for one of the many organizations that help children in need. Or help them come up with some other festive fundraising activities.
Share some spooky treats. Most kids love to get involved in the kitchen – especially when sweet treats are involved. This year, whip up a batch of spooky treats together to share with neighbors, teachers, patients at the local hospital, and residents at your nearest retirement home.
Donate old costumes. Your kids grow quickly, so it’s unlikely they’ll be able to wear the same Halloween costume two years in a row, even if they wanted to, which they probably don’t. Discuss with your child the needs of other children their age and give them the opportunity to donate their gently used Halloween costumes and clothing. Be sure to explain to your children how their costumes can help make another child’s Halloween extra special, and make sure they’re involved in the donation process.
Host a Halloween slumber party. Encourage your child to invite their closest friends for a night of spooktacular fun and treats. Ask each child to bring a canned good to the party to donate to your local food kitchen.
With a little planning and creativity, you can use the excitement of Halloween to encourage your child to give back to the community as well.