Batman & Robin (again)? Tom & Jerry? Larry and Bob (from Veggietales)? Red Spiderman and Black Spiderman? My three-year-old son still hasn't decided what he and I are going to be for Halloween, but after visiting many of the costume stores, it is clear about one thing--some costumes can be pretty dangerous.
Black is certainly popular, but not safe for trick-or-treating. Masks don't always fit and can block your child's vision. Now is the time to think about your child's costume's safety before you set the goblin free to raid the neighbor's candy.
Here are a few pointers from the costume experts:
- Halloween costumes should be light and bright, so children are clearly visible to motorists and other pedestrians.
- Trim costumes and bags with reflective tape.
- Make sure children wear flame-resistant costumes that fit properly.
- Costumes that are too long may cause kids to trip and fall.
- Children should wear sturdy, comfortable and slip-resistant shoes.
- Masks and hats can impair a child's vision, so secure hats well and consider using face makeup instead of masks.
Any ideas for me and my son would be helpful--just make sure they're safe (and easy to do and don't make me look too ridiculous!)
Enjoy the treat of costume shopping, but don't be tricked by the unsafe costumes!
