We came across a hilarious Halloween sign this week that said “You can’t scare me, I have teenagers,” and reflected on how this tongue-in-cheek quote held some truth. From your baby’s first step to your teenager’s first drive, there are many moments that stand out for a parent. Along the way, there will be unexpected first scares as well especially by the time the teenage years roll in. Preparing for some of those situations, like the first time your kids stay home alone or have to go into surgery, can turn a potential scare into a momentous accomplishment to celebrate.

Leaving them home alone

Once your kids are ready to stay home alone, set up some guidelines and make sure they have emergency contact numbers. Try running some small errands at first to make sure they’re comfortable the first few times.

More tips here from Child Welfare Information Gateway

Going on their first date

Your teen’s first date can be a nerve-wracking experience, for both you and your kid! Have honest conversations with them about when they can date and your different expectations. Before they leave the house, agree on the guidelines and a curfew time for peace-of-mind.

More tips here from Family Life

Take the driving test

Seeing your teen behind the wheel for the first time can be momentous. Prepare them beforehand and lead by example. Explain traffic signals and rules to them when you are driving and when you switch off, stay calm when you’re in the passenger seat.

More tips here from Teen Driving

Cooking in the kitchen

Teaching your kids how to cook and making a meal together can be a great bonding experience! Share safety tips with them first like how to handle knives and turn on stoves, and then pick a fun recipe to make together.

More tips here from Raising Children

Getting surgery

Going under for surgery can be a scary thing for anyone, but if your kids are especially afraid, help prepare them for the big day. Let them know what to expect from the surgery and make up a fun game to play at the hospital.

More tips here from Hand in Hand Parenting

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The one week countdown to Halloween has begun as costume ideas are getting finalized and bags of candy bought. We’re excited to see all the ghosts and ghouls come out and play, but want to keep any real danger away. There'll be a lot of running around on Halloween night so it's important to talk about safety with your kids before they head out to trick or treat. They're so excited for the night but as parents, it'll be easier to enjoy Halloween when we have some peace of mind.

Here are some tips to help make Halloween both monstrously fun and safe:

Start early (and get first pick on candy!)

Indulge in your kids’ eagerness and kick off trick or treating when the sun is still out. This way, their pillowcases and plastic buckets will fill up before it gets too dark out.

Stay in well-lit areas

Advise your kids to stay on pedestrian friendly neighborhoods with street lamps. Once dusk sets in, it’ll be easier for them to see and not get lost.

Travel in groups

Parents often accompany young kids, but if your kids are ready to go off without you, encourage them to go with a group. It’s safer to travel in a pack, especially once the sun starts to set.

Use the buddy system

It can be easy to wander off while trick or treating. Have your kids choose a buddy so that they stick together on their quest for candy.

Set a check-in time

Whether it’s at a specific time or after they’re done trick or treating, plan a time for your kids to touch base with you. Set an alarm on their phone so that they get to enjoy the night but don’t lose track of time.

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