๐ When Fun Feels Scary: Helping Kids Cope with Halloween Fears
Oct 20, 2025Halloween can be full of excitement -
bright lights, silly costumes, and spooky decorations around every corner. But for many young children, what’s meant to be “fun scary” can actually feel just plain scary.
As parents, we can help kids build comfort and confidence by slowing things down and tuning in to their cues.
Here are a few ways to make this season a little less frightening and a lot more fun.
๐งก 1. Normalize the Fear
It’s completely normal for young children to be afraid of masks, loud noises, or dark houses. Their brains are still learning the difference between real and pretend.
Try saying:
“That witch looks spooky, doesn’t she? But she’s just a decoration - not real.”
Simple explanations like this build understanding and security.
๐ 2. Preview the Environment
Take a walk through your neighborhood before dark to explore decorations in daylight.
Point out the silly and the funny.
This helps kids feel ready when they see those same sights at night.
๐ป 3. Choose Comfort Over Costume
Let your child wear what makes them feel safe - even if it’s not “Halloween enough”.
A favorite hoodie under a costume, or skipping the mask altogether, is perfectly fine.
Comfort creates confidence.
๐ฌ 4. Stay Close and Offer Choice
Some kids might want to hang back or skip a house that looks too scary.
Let them make that call.
You might say:
“You can stay with me and watch, or we can skip that one.”
That little bit of choice gives them power in an unpredictable environment.
๐ฏ 5. Keep Connection the Priority
At the end of the night, remind your child that you’re proud of them - for trying, for speaking up, or even for knowing their limits.
The goal isn’t to be brave at all costs - it’s to feel safe while having fun.
๐ Remember:
Halloween can be magical and manageable.
When you slow down, stay connected, and follow your child’s lead, the night becomes a chance to build trust - not tension.
โจ Want more calm, connection-based parenting ideas?
Join THEMSPAIGEWAY for tools and tips to help your child feel confident through every season.
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