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Unlock Some Spooky Potential

When I was a kid, maybe about 12 years old, I remember one specific Halloween more than the rest. My mom worked in an office and she and her co-workers had decided to have a costume contest. She came to me and my sisters for help. We didn’t just help, we TOOK OVER.

And she let us take the lead. We were super creative, and we planned her costume then implemented that plan–she went as a bathroom, complete with shower curtain, towel, and toilet paper roll. I don’t remember who won the contest, but I won’t forget dressing her up and sending her to work that way.

Sometimes experience is the best teacher. While there are some things you really don’t WANT your child to experience (like smoking is bad–you’d rather have them take your word for it), it is important for kids to learn and grow from what they do on their own WITHIN CERTAIN GUIDELINES. Letting kids make plans, use their creativity, and take the lead on Halloween costumes and events is pretty safe, in my humble opinion. So, don’t just get them involved, put them in charge! Maybe they will make themselves into a ghost with an old sheet and a pair of scissors…might just save you a ton of money, too!

And speaking of money, since you are spending it anyway, make it really count! Focus on helping your children develop these key life skills (while still having fun!): planning, communicating, and budgeting. Kill two (or more) birds with one stone, as they say. Hey, you've got to get those teaching moments in when you can! 

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