Halloween tips from MU Extension

To help families enjoy a safe, healthy and fun Halloween, MU Extension specialists share advice on costumes, trick-or-treating, healthier treats and options for children with food allergies and sensitivities. Explore these quick reads to help your family make the most of the season.

Safe & spooky: Halloween costume safety. MU Extension human development specialist Maria Calvert shares tips on choosing costumes that fit well, improve visibility after dark and avoid common hazards. Reflective materials, safe accessories and a little practice before Halloween can help children enjoy a safer night of trick-or-treating.

Loving a lower-sugar Halloween with your children. Families can still enjoy Halloween without an overload of sugar. MU Extension nutrition and health specialist Rachel O’Halloran offers simple strategies for balancing treats with healthy choices, managing candy after Halloween and creating new traditions that put the focus on fun rather than sugar.

Getting little trick-or-treaters ready for Halloween. A first trick-or-treating experience can be exciting and a little overwhelming. Calvert explains how parents can prepare young children by talking through what to expect, choosing comfortable costumes and planning age-appropriate outings.

Trick-or-treat with safety in mind. From crossing streets safely to checking candy before it is eaten, a few precautions can help prevent Halloween mishaps. Calvert offers guidance for parents, drivers and homeowners, along with suggestions for alternative celebrations such as trunk-or-treat events and other community-based activities.

Alpha-gal-friendly options for trick-or-treaters. For children with alpha-gal syndrome and other allergies, traditional Halloween candy may not always be a safe choice. O’Halloran suggests allergen-friendly and nonfood options so every child can take part in the fun.