A D-I-Y Halloween

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Halloween is changing for sure. We have concepts like the “switch-witch” who comes after the candy haul and swaps sugary treats for something healthier, like a toy or game.  We have “trunk-or-treat” where the tykes grab their halloween haul from a approved group of parents meeting up in a community parking lot with decorated cars.

But what about the opportunity that might be lost?  Halloween is one of the last times of the year that it’s not just socially acceptable to bother your neighbours at home, but it’s practically demanded.  This is one holiday that those without their own grandchildren, or little social connection can welcome others without leaving the house.  And the benefits are not just one-sided.  Studies suggest that engaging with the imaginative aspects of halloween – dressing up and acting out a character – might have psychological benefits for children’s development and boost empathy by literally putting them in someone else’s shoes.

So in this age of Design-It-Yourself Halloween nights, it’s worth bringing back a few old traditions.  If you’re throwing a party, even for adults, try to encourage people to create the costumes themselves, even if that means wrapping each other up in toilet paper for the ever-awesome “Mummy”.  Kids aren’t the only ones who benefit from creative play, and a night being someone other than yourself could be just the thing you need to relieve stress and let loose.

Are you dressing up for halloween?  Making your own costume?  Decorating the house?  Let me know in the comments or on Facebook.