Halloween is just around the corner and so you may very well be getting ready to celebrate baby’s first Halloween. Halloween can be enjoyed by all if you put into practice some good common sense safety tips.
Baby Costumes
Choose fabric that is flame resistant. I have even seen some parents buy pajamas that have a Halloween theme. While I admit those big costumes are awfully cute, safety for you baby is more important.
Make sure that the costume you buy is not going to pose a choking or strangulation hazard to your baby. Buttons and beads should be sewn on very tightly and not easily pulled off. Don’t forget to check for things like antennae or strings that baby could wrap around his neck!
Remember that it’s safer to go out when it’s still light out.
Skip face masks that your baby is probably going to pull off anyways.
Make sure that if you use face paint, it is non-toxic.
Toddler Tips for Costumes
Costumes for toddlers should not restrict their movement or make it difficult for them to walk.
Toddlers should still wear sturdy shoes with their costume.
While a toddler might keep on a mask, you’re still probably going to do better with a hat and non-toxic face paint.
Keep running to a minimum when you’re out with your toddler. Believe me, as the mom of toddling twins–I know that can be tricky. But there will be a lot of people out not to mention the fact that it might be more difficult for your toddler to maneuver in his costume. Better safe than sorry!
Tips on Candy
I do not recommend giving your baby candy. Actually, I don’t recommend giving your toddler candy either, however, I do understand that it might be considered a “special occasion” and so I’ll offer you a few candy safety tips as well as some alternative treats!
Hard candy is out of the question. I would not even give a lollipop as a toddler can bite a piece of the lollipop off and it can become a hazard.
Gum is also not a good idea. Getting gum out of hair is not fun. . .and that’s where it will most likely end up not to mention that it is also a choking hazard.
Soft candy like a Hershey’s chocolate bar or better yet, M & M’s do not pose a choking hazard. (I still cringe at the thought of giving a baby candy–but that’s just me.)
If you really don’t want you’re little one to have candy here are some alternatives for him and his pint sized friends:
Cookies–not nutritionally more sound, but if your toddler is eating solid foods well, cookies pose no choking hazard at all.
Chocolate milk in a box–These little nifty boxes have been through a process called ultra-pasteurization and don’t need to be refrigerated.
Raisins–Not so great for the teeth but easy to munch on.
My Favorite Treat Mix–Mix apple cinnamon cheerios, with raisins and miniature marshmallows. Perfect for little fingers to munch on!
Have a safe and Happy Halloween!
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