How to Trick-Or-Treat

There’s nothing to trick-or-treating, right? Actually, trick-or-treating is a highly nuanced skill. While it’s true that any kid with a bag and a costume will be able to get some free candy on Halloween night, parents who have their kids follow these tips will find a much heftier candy sack at the end of the evening.

First and most importantly is to start the festivities early, preferably before sunset. Homeowners are more likely to answer the door when they can plainly view trick-or-treaters, and starting early extends the candy collecting hours. Conversely, avoid knocking late at night, when homeowners have left for parties, are in bed, or are simply wary that it’s prank-happy teenagers at the door. Of course, starting too early–say, mid afternoon–is a bad idea, as many people won’t have their treats ready for dispensing.

Another crucial tactic is to find the right costume. The key is to stay away from controversy. Some people may not appreciate seeing devils or gory, blood-splattered zombies, and won’t give out as much candy as a result. It’s also best to keep your kids away from politics. Sarah Palin and Barrack Obama masks might be big hits at some houses, but could easily be disastrous at others. Whatever you end up choosing, put some thought and effort into it. Lazily slapping a store-bought mask on your kid isn’t going to impress anyone.

Parents should also verse their children on proper trick-or-treating etiquette. There’s nothing worse for a homeowner than answering the door on Halloween night, and then finding a silent group of kids waiting with their bags held open, greedily expecting a candy bonanza. Instead, kids should be friendly and energetic, and should shout “trick or treat!” in a clear, loud voice. Be sure to emphasize the friendly part, because this is certainly not a threat. And one thing to never do is return to a house twice: any homeowner with the slightest bit of self respect will turn your kids away empty handed.

Halloween and trick-or-treating can be fun, especially when junior ends his or her night with a heaping bag of candy. Follow these rules, use common sense, and be safe, and your kids will enjoy a bountiful, sweet and chocolaty harvest.


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