Halloween can be intimidating for some kids. Such fears are normal and Halloween is the perfect time to deal with them. It allows anxieties and misgivings to come out into the open, letting kids manage what is at other times nightmarish. It is a time that helps kids deal with fears of death, darkness, ghosts or monsters openly, without risk of being embarrassed or laughed at. It is important to be extra sensitive of any child's fears at this time. If a child shows some fear allow them to express it. Some kids express fears of clowns or ghouls - if this is so - allow the child this expression. Show your child that Halloween does not have to be gruesome - it is also a holiday for fairy princesses.

Trickster safety:

Questions of the safety of trick or treating have increased over the years, particularly at unfamiliar homes -- causing some parents to discontinue the tradition all together. If you are concerned about trick or treating, here are some basic safety rules to follow:

• Always carry a flashlight.
• Trick or treat at homes you know.
• Children should be accompanied when trick or treating. Older kids should stay in groups if no parent is present.
• Flame resistant costumes are in order. Keep costumes short and remember to stay away from pumpkins with candles in them .
• Stay away from pets you do not know.
• Road safety rules are important. Do not crisscross the road - go up one side of the road and down the other side.
• If parents are driving kids - drive slowly, with lights on and be cautious when pulling to the side of the road.
• NEVER eat any treats until parents have had a chance to go through them and inspect them. Parents should look for tampering of packages and discard any they believe to be unsafe.
• Wear your own shoes when trick or treating - wearing costume shoes/boots can be dangerous and uncomfortable.
• Not everyone celebrates Halloween. Avoid homes where lights are off.
• Do not to run through neighbors yards or gardens. Respect other people property.
• Wear a wrist watch, preferably one that lights up. It is easy to lose track of time when out Trick or Treating and having fun. You don't want to be late getting home or worry your parents if you are out with a group of friends.

Treater's safety: If you plan on helping giving out treats this year here are some suggestions to follow: Have your treats prepared by the door so you don't have to go hunting for them when the tricksters come. Create a unique way to hand out treats, in a carved out pumpkin or basket. Clear your yard and walkways, remove any obstacles. Position pumpkins with candles in them in an area that is safe and children will not trip on them. Consider using flashlights instead of candles. Replace any lights or bulbs that are burnt out so area is brightly lit where tricksters will arrive. Nutrition is not a consideration at Halloween. Those parents who are concerned about nutrition generally do not let their children go out trick or treating, or, will clean out their kids' loot before letting them eat all that candy. If you give out raisins, apples, granola or wheat germ it is likely to end up all over your front yard. If you don't want to give out candy you could give out stickers, trading cards or similar items. If you plan on dressing up to greet tricksters remember that some younger children may be frightened of your costume. Try to avoid scaring small children.

Eat a good meal prior to trick-or-treating. Consider fire safety when decorating for Halloween. Plan and review with your children the route you plan to take when trick-or-treating. Be visible and use a flash light during night hours. When designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults!