Halloween bewitches tweens. They tell me trick-or-treating is the best night of the year. Wearing a costume adds to the excitement. You know it’s time to start shifting your child away from trick-or-treating. Yet, giving up a trademark of childhood may not be easy. So, take it slow and enjoy this year for sure.
The Costume
Finding the perfect costume ignites your tween’s imagination. You have a number of concerns, including the age-appropriateness. This is difficult, especially with the increasing numbers of violent, trashy, and sleazy costumes that fit tweens. You’re left with an additional job; balancing what they want to be with what is acceptable. I wish you the best.
Safety
When your child announces she’s too old and doesn’t need you accompanying her on the trick-or-treat route, it’s a sign. And when he says he’ll be good with sorting through his bag of candy without you, it’s another sign. You welcome this independence, but you are not about to let either of these happen. Even though they have many adult features, maturity isn’t one. They need your clear thinking and decision making abilities. You are smarter and wiser.
Inviting the transition
Like me, and probably you, too, tweens don’t like being told what to do. But they love being asked for ideas. They feel empowered. You’ll be surprised at their creativity when you ask how they’d like to start the shift away from trick-or-treating. Toss in your suggestions and decide together how to do it. This way will make the change easier.
Go gradually as you help your tween let go of this childhood delight. Replacing one fun event with another makes the transition easier. And know that, as always, you are preparing your child for launch day, where there is no trick-or treating.
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