Keeping Kids Safe This Halloween
We love Halloween here in Marin! From knowing the inside scoop on the neighborhoods with the best candy bars to wandering down the streets lined with the most incredible decorations, the festive spirit lights up our community. And, while we soak up the fun, it’s also important to think about how to keep kids safe. Halloween is a wonderful opportunity for families to connect and make lasting memories, and it’s also a chance to set clear guidelines and expectations around safety and substance-use. Below, you’ll find tips for navigating Halloween at different ages, along with helpful resources to support you along the way.
For Kids Under 10
For our youngest trick-or-treaters, Halloween is all about fun and creativity. The Raising the Bar program focuses on modeling healthy behaviors and ensuring youth events are truly youth-focused by keeping them substance-free (i.e. saving the adult beverages until after trick-or-treating).
Model Good Behavior: Kids learn from us. By demonstrating responsible choices, we set a strong example for them. Check out our The Research to learn more about the critical role of modeling.
Be Involved in Activities: Join community events that promote a healthy, substance-free lifestyle to show your child they have your support. If you’re looking to throw a kid-safe party, head to our Parent Toolkit to gather some resources.
Be Present: Your kids are so excited to share these days with you. They likely be memories you both hold for a lifetime.
For Kids Aged 11-14
As kids transition to pre-teens and early teens, discussions about alcohol and other drugs become even more important. The Let’s Talk initiative helps us communicate effectively on these topics.
Discuss Expectations: Clearly outline family rules for Halloween activities and encourage your child to share their plans. It’s also a good idea to understand what’s happening in Marin and what your kids may be exposed to. Our Let’s Talk Toolkit is a great place to start.)
Establish Check-Ins: If your child is going out with friends, ensure they know the importance of regular check-ins and communication about where they are.
Know Their Friends: Get to know your child's friends and their parents. Building relationships with other families can enhance safety and give you peace of mind.
For Kids Aged 14-18
For older teens, Halloween offers opportunities for independence, but it also presents challenges. Our Be The Influence program aims to empower parents to take an active role in preventing substance use by limiting access, setting clear boundaries, and encouraging conversations among parents. Check out some of our newly developed tools to help you:cs.
Don’t Let Kids Drink or Use Cannabis in Your Home: We now know that letting kids use substances isn’t protecting them in any way. You can help your teens, and the community, by ensuring your home is a safe place, free of substances. (Check out Social Host Ordinance to learn more)
Set Clear Guidelines: Discuss family rules about substance use before your teen heads out. Make sure they understand the potential consequences, both for themselves, and for you (Our BTI Party Guide and Talking with Your Teens sections are a great place to start).
Explore Myths and Scripts: Learn about some common misconceptions around in-home substance use and how to combat that misinformation when talking to other parents. Our simple Scripts help you set boundaries, share expectations, and collaborate for safer, substance-free experiences.
An Important Note for All: Watch Out for THC Candies
While Halloween is a time for fun, parents do need to be aware of the potential dangers of THC-infused candies and treats. Many products resemble popular candy brands, which can easily mislead teens and younger kids. These look-alike products can lead to accidental consumption or taking too much, posing serious health risks.
By being proactive and involved, we can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for kids of all ages.
For more tips on keeping Halloween safe and fun, check out these resources:
The Marin community is home to incredible parents dedicated to doing what's best for their children, and we take pride in serving such a passionate and caring community. Together, let’s work to ensure that our kids have the best Halloween ever, filled with fun, safety (and maybe some candy that we steal when no one is looking!)