Parenting tips for culturally appropriate costumes and inclusive Halloween

Halloween is only two days away but there are many issues parents are considering this year– Is it safe? What costumes are appropriate? Are parents comfortable sending their kids out this year after having a quieter Halloween last year?

Parenting blogger Julie Cole discussed these questions with Annette Hamm on Morning Live.

Cole, who is also the co-founder of Mabel’s Labels, said costumes should not require you to alter your skin colour, reinforce a stereotype about a group of people or offend a community of people, religion or culture.

“Conversations need to take place between kids and parents, especially if parents aren’t entirely comfortable with the costume,” she said.

Cole recommends making your home inclusive this Halloween as well.

For children with food allergies and sensitivities, homeowners are encouraged to place a teal-coloured pumpkin in front of their home. This means that the homeowner is handing out candy free of food allergens such as nuts, dairy and gluten, among others.

If you see a child carrying a blue pumpkin bucket to collect their candy with, this means that the child has autism or is non-verbal.

Cole also reminded homeowners to be aware of children who may have accessibility issues. If you have doorsteps and cannot make your home accessible, she recommended setting up a candy dish at the end of the driveway.