In my life before kids one of the things I did was facilitate kids parties at a large Rec Center and I learned a few things about special events , sugar and kids. Most importantly the way to do it right, or at least try to!

1. Sleep. Young kids are amazing little creatures who are wonderful when well rested and bouncing off the ever loving walls when they are tired. Many ( my son included) gets more hyper the more they need to sleep. So plan an early bedtime, bath before bed or another sure fire way to get a good night's sleep the night before Halloween. If they are still napping - plan a nap that will give them enough rest but allow them to fully wake up before having to get ready. Being rushed is not what you want to be !

2. Scope out your route. If possible before heading out trick or treating drive through your route. You will be able to see the houses that may have scary decorations that will be too much for your small one. We have a few houses that we don't have to skip but we do have to prepare my son for.

That brings us to ...

3. Prepare fearful little ones. Let they play with costumes so they understand that scary masks are just pretend. My son is petrified of mascots ( all mascots) but with some preparation and reassurance he confidently went up to grown ups in costumes to get candy... hmm now I wonder if it was the candy more than the prep from me. Still a good idea!

4. Full Belly! And not full of candy. Around here kids trick or treat starting about 6-9pm and while we don't stay out that long we still make sure my son's belly is full. Make a favorite meal that you know they will gobble up so the candy that does make it into their bellies isn't the only thing in there.

5. Pack some candy of your own. If you don't think you can stave off the " Can I have some candy?" requests pack some candy from home you know is safe to eat to munch on along the way. This is especially important for anyone with allergies.

6. Have a healthy treat waiting at home , especially if they were too excited to eat much dinner. Last year we had a banana smoothie waiting for my son so while we checked his candy and picked a few pieces he could have right away he sipped on a healthy smoothie and didn't go to bed on a complete sugar high.

Have fun!