Alternative Trick-or-Treating Ideas in a World of Social Distancing
It’s spooky season and parents are looking for ways to maintain normalcy amid the pandemic, especially when it comes to trick-or-treating. Of course, face masks and social distancing are at the top of the priority list, but there are plenty of limited-contact ideas that you can implement in your neighborhood to make sure trick-or-treating is still a fun experience for everyone. Here are some activities that you can try in your neighborhood to keep the season spooky.
Note: Refer to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for holiday celebrations.
You’ve Been Booed!
This Halloween tradition is more appropriate than ever as a safe, distanced activity that involves the whole neighborhood. Put together a small bag or basket of Halloween treats that you leave on a neighbor’s porch with a note saying “You’ve been booed!” and instructions to boo two other neighbors. The idea is to get a chain of “boos” throughout the neighborhood.
It’s Time for a Costume Parade
In lieu of candy handouts, try a costume parade where kids can dress up and show off their looks in their front yards. Then, adults can get in cars or ride bikes and toss out candy to the little ones. This avoids unnecessary contact and allows kids to show off their costumes.
Construct a Candy Chute
Andrew Beattie, a Cincinnati native, has gone viral for his “candy chute” that he constructed to help children enjoy the holiday safely. Beattie constructed the chute using a six-foot by four-inch shipping tube that he attached to his handrail. Consider DIYing your own candy chute to ensure safe social distancing while for trick or treaters this year.
Practice Safe Social Distancing Measures
If you still plan to go trick-or-treating, consider sitting behind a Halloween-decorated table with masks and hand sanitizer at the ready to ensure appropriate social distancing.
Stay safe out there!
Resources
Holiday Celebrations (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)