Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1509135
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 23 EAT A HIGH-PROTEIN DINNER PRACTICE THEIR REFRAINS BE PREPARED AIM FOR THE MIDDLE USE SOCIAL SENSE No one likes to feel left out, so encourage your kids to invite new or shy kids who might not already be part of a group to join you. Or, if you know that you will all have a better time if it's just you and your kids, don't feel bad about breaking off from a group. If you are driving to another neighborhood to walk with a friend or friends, consider parking your vehicle in the middle of the neighborhood instead of on the edge or back at the friend's house. This way, if you need to make an early exit for any reason, you'll be that much closer to your escape car. When bringing along very young children with older children consider bringing along a stroller or wagon. Even if the kids insist they don't need one, they might want one later after exhaustion sets in. Plastic and paper bags for treats are out. They are the most likely to rip or tear. Pillowcases are better, but these too may split open when stuffed. So whatever you do, don't let the kids use your good set. Whatever they carry, stuff a few extra bags in your backpack in case you need replacements. Also carry band-aids for blisters, water for hydration, and cash on hand in case you come across a food cart selling some- thing you might enjoy. And, of course, don't for- get the camera. Commit to making the night pleasant for all. "Trick-or-treat!" and "Thank you!" are the only things young children need to be able to say their first couple of years out. But encourage older children to be more cordial especially to the older folks in the 'hood, who will likely opt out altogether if they are offended by enough poorly behaved kids. How about making a chorus of "Happy Halloween!" or "Have a great night!" mandatory before the kids run off to the next house? 'Tis the season for over-indulging in sugar, which means it's more impor- tant than any other time of year to emphasize three healthy high-protein meals a day. Be sure to give your kids limits on how much sugar they may consume between meals. Take their candy away and mete it out yourself if they don't comply with your limits or can't seem to wean themselves off the sugar roller coaster. Trick-or-treat Preparedness Umbrellas Water bottles Band-aids Extra treat bags Lip balm Throat lozenges Cell phone/Camera Protein snack like nuts or gogurt Backpack or shoulder bag Stroller or wagon Flashlight Halloween is a great opportunity to teach kids about doing what works best for your family rather than always going along with the crowd. On the other hand, if there is a crowd you need to keep up with, now you will be ready. Happy Halloween!