Tips To Help Your Child See And Be Seen This Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner and now that my own little goblin is becoming more aware of the fun involved (read: FREE CANDY), I’ve become more aware of how dangerous trick-or-treating can be if the proper precautions are not taken.

Did you know that one in four school-aged children is living with a vision problem? If you have a child with vision problems trick-or-treating on dark streets, it need not be a nightmare this year if you follow these tips.

1. Take Precautions If Your Child Wears Glasses

As a kid, I often had a hard time finding masks that would fit over my glasses so I regularly went without my lenses. Eventually, I worked spectacles into my costumes or wore my prescribed contact lenses. If your little ghoul wears glasses, ensure his or her Halloween mask fits comfortably and the eye holes are appropriately placed and large enough to see through.

Consider picking up a handy sports strap to keep those glasses in place, and remind your little one to look over his or her shoulder before turning corners or crossing the road – especially if the mask is hooded.

2. Keep Your Kids’ Eyes And Skin Safe

When it comes to face paints, be sure to read the label. As a rule, I don’t put anything near my son's eyes for fear of irritation, and Doctors of Optometry recommend to keep makeup away from the eyes and eyelids. Err on the side of caution and keep all face paints and costume makeup away from the eyes.

If you do choose to use makeup, read labels and avoid gross ingredients like heavy metals by choosing non-toxic, safe Halloween makeup products or consider making your own. 

Use a makeup remover to gently remove face paints and costume makeup from your wee one's face, taking extra care near the eye area. You can also make your own makeup remover.

If your little ghoul wears glasses but doesn’t want to wear a mask, see if he or she would like to create a costume that includes glasses.

3. Avoid Cosmetic Contacts

If your child is a bit older—think tweens or teens—and they think costume or special effect contact lenses would make their costume extra scary, they’re right: scratched corneas and damaging your vision is terrifying. Never, ever put a contact lens or any other article into your eye without consulting your Doctor of Optometry. A Doctor of Optometry can prescribe safe, appropriate contact lenses for your family member’s needs.

Watch this video for more info about cosmetic contact lenses:

4. Ensure Your Child Is Visible to Others

Small, simple reflective strips can help motorists spot your child during the trick-or-treating hours. Glow stick bracelets and necklaces, or flashing key chains can make for fun additions to whacky costumes! Remind your children to stay in well-lit areas and encourage them to carry flashlights, just in case.

Happy Halloween!