The National Retail Federation estimates the average person will spend $74 on Halloween this year and the total Halloween spending at $6.9 billion. WOW! Can you believe that some people started shopping for Halloween costumes in September? With just a little over 2 weeks to go before the BIG night, here are some tips to make it a safe night filled with fun.
I have some great memories of Belinda at Halloween which I will wait to share until Halloween! Here’s some tips from: Kids Health, Halloween Safety Guide, and Safe Kids about picking out costumes:
- Choose a light-colored costume because these are easily seen at night. Add reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark tape to the front and back of the costume and to the trick-or-treat bag.
- Only buy a costume that is labeled “flame-retardant.” This means the material won’t burn. If you are making your own costume, use nylon or polyester materials, which are flame-retardant.
- Make sure wigs and beards don’t cover your kids’ eyes, noses, or mouths.
- Kids shouldn’t wear masks — they can make it difficult for them to see and breathe. Instead, use nontoxic face paint or makeup. Have younger kids draw pictures of what they want to look like. Older kids will have fun putting the makeup on themselves. Test the face paint or makeup on your child’s arm or hand before applying to make sure the paint doesn’t irritate the skin.
- Avoid colored or decorative contact lenses, unless they have been prescribed by an eye doctor for your child.
- Avoid over-sized and high-heeled shoes that could cause kids to trip. Make sure the rest of the costume fits well, too, which can help prevent trips and falls.
- Make sure that any props your kids carry, such as wands or swords, are short and flexible.
- You can use a website like SlickDeals.net to search for products or coupons. SlickDeals has a community of 9 million users who are scouting for the best deals available at any given time.
- Thrift stores are a great place to check for decor and costumes. You can also check out apps or websites like Poshmark and thredUp. Also check out great dishware and bowls that can be painted or “dressed up” for the holiday. Visit online pinboard, Pinterest, for DIY inspiration.
- Give kids flashlights with new batteries. Kids may also enjoy wearing glow sticks as bracelets or necklaces.
When it comes to Halloween, procrastination can actually pay off. Last year, the price of Hershey’s snack-sized candy bars were slashed in half two days before Halloween.
So, what was YOUR favorite costume or your favorite Halloween memory? Share it with us for a chance to WIN a Thirty One TREAT.
Hope Wissel 