How to Plan an Alternative to Trick-or-Treat Night

In a world where safety is a major concern for parents at Halloween time, many have decided to forego trick-or-treat altogether. Others have sought alternatives to the traditional trick-or-treat night. The following are some alternatives for parents to consider.

Harvest Party – Many churches have begun having a children’s Harvest Party at their church on Trick-or-Treat night as an alternative, not only to the sometimes evil associations with Halloween, but also to have a safe alternative for children. A Harvest Party is usually held at the church, with food and games. Many choose to have children dress up, either traditionally, or as Bible characters or some other theme character.

The Harvest Party doesn’t have to just be for churches. Parents could consider having one in their home for their own children and their children’s friends. Kids still get the experience of dressing up and eating candy, but they stay safe in their own home. A wise parent can also come up with alternatives for the usual surfeit of candy as well.

Trunk-or-Treat – This activity is also one that tends to be a church-related activity. Other groups have adopted and adapted this activity as well. Adults bring their cars to a parking lot chosen for this activity, and children go around and “trick-or-treat” as parents and others pass out treats from the trunk of their car. Again, children still get the experience, although costumes may be themed, and parents know exactly where the children are and who the treats are from.

Reverse Trick-or-Treat – In this variation, the children get to be involved in decorating and passing out candy to those who come trick-or-treating at their home. Older children are more likely to enjoy this and accept it without whining. The more you allow them to participate and ‘own’ it with their own ideas, the better.

Trick-or-Treat Party – Another alternative is to have a party at your home. Your children, along with friends and relatives, can decorate, play games, get treats, and just have a lot of fun. They get to enjoy the holiday with everyone else, but parents know they are safe. The sky’s the limit as far as activities, themes or decorations are concerned. Allow your children to participate, and they will love this new tradition.

Relative/Friend only Trick-or-Treat – For this celebration, parents will need to drive their children to various homes for Trick-or-Treat rather than allowing them to go door-to-door. Many church groups do this with their children, so that the children are only going to the door of people they know and trust.

Regardless of how you celebrate Halloween, or even if you celebrate, you can keep the kids safe by offering them a different way to celebrate. The kids will have a blast and Mom and Dad won’t need to worry about poison, razor blades or stranger danger. A win-win situation for all!


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