Allow your child to practice ringing your home doorbell with their costume on and run through the whole trick- or- treat process. Encourage your child to make eye contact and remind your child to say “thank you” regardless of whether he likes the treat or not. Explain that even if she doesn’t like what she has received, she should be grateful that the person gave her a treat at all. You can separate the “good” from the “bad” candy later at home.

2. Safety:

Teach your child about road safety such as looking left, right, left before crossing, making eye contact with drivers before crossing, always walking on sidewalks or paths and watching out for cars that are turning or backing up.

3. Talk to your child about being polite to others:

Halloween is a great time to remind your child about the importance of good manners. The combination of a sugar rush and dressing up in their favourite costumes can affect your child’s behaviour, but there are ways to avoid the recipe for disaster. Remind your child that behind the costume is still a real kid inside and that he/she should have fun but still remember his manners and be kind and courteous to others.

4. Ask your child to be respectful of others:

If a house has no lights on, it’s probably not a good idea to ring that doorbell. The family probably ran out of candy, isn’t home, or is not participating in the festivities. Remind your child that it is always important to be respectful of others, even on Halloween.

5. Lesson on kindness:

If your child is going out trick-or-treating, be sure your household is also participating in handing out treats. Spread kindness (and treats) this Halloween, and most of all, enjoy!

If you follow these helpful tips, your child’s good behaviour may just end up being the best treat that you receive this year. Happy Halloween!