AHN Pediatricians Share Tips for a Safe, Fun and Healthy Halloween

Pediatric experts offer 5 tips covering pedestrian safety, healthy treat intake, food allergies and more as families prepare to trick-or-treat this spooky season

PITTSBURGH - Little ghouls, goblins, ghosts and witches will hit the streets this weekend to trick-or-treat, and Allegheny Health Network's Department of Pediatrics is sharing guidance to help families celebrate a safe, healthy and happy Halloween.

AHN pediatricians offer the following guidance as children prepare to put on their favorite costumes and head out into the neighborhood:

1. Make sure your child is visible and follow pedestrian safety rules: According to the Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics, the incidence of pedestrian death is nearly 45% higher on Halloween than other evenings around the same time of year. Dress your child in bright colors or reflective clothing, and make sure their costume fits well to minimize fall or tripping hazards. Supervise children under 12 years of age (or those who may need an extra set of eyes), stay on well-lit streets with sidewalks, cross at designated intersections, and show your child how to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
2. Watch out for a sugar overload: AHN pediatric nutritionists recommend children eat no more than 10 small pieces of candy on Halloween night, and much less if they're indulging in full-size bars. The American Heart Association also encourages a large, healthy meal before trick-or-treat activities to help curb the cravings for extra sweet treats.
3. Keep allergies in mind: Roughly 5% of children have a food allergy, and for them, Halloween can be one of the trickiest days of the year. Be sure to read ingredient lists if your child has an allergy and keep any prescribed emergency medicine on hand if indulging in candy before arriving back home. Placing teal pumpkins at the front door signals to trick-or-treaters that you have non-food treats available like glow sticks or small toys.
4. Stay Active: If you're able, walk to all houses on your designated trick-or-treat route, and set a goal with your family of how many streets or houses you'd like to visit, or compete in teams to visit as many as you can. Use the evening to not only receive goodies, but get in a nice outdoor, family activity.
5. Wash your hands before diving into the treats: Respiratory virus season is in full swing, and it's vital to maintain proper hygiene when with others, to wash hands before eating, and to stay home if not feeling well. Also, make sure your child's vaccinations are up-to-date, especially before the fall and winter holiday seasons commence.

"Halloween is about more than costumes and candy. It's an opportunity for children to spend time with friends and family, connect with their neighbors and feel part of their community. Those shared experiences are an important part of childhood, and with a few simple precautions, parents can help make sure their children enjoy all the fun and social connection the holiday has to offer," said Joseph Aracri, DO, Chair of AHN Department of Pediatrics.

To learn more about AHN to make an appointment at a pediatric office near you, visit ahn.org or call 412-DOCTORS.

###