Spook-free Halloween safety tips for your children

SALISBURY, Md. – Psychologists say it is critical that parents become aware of the negative effects that Halloween can have on their kids.

According to psychologist Dr. Kathryn Seifert, parents need to keep three things in mind while their child is outside joining in on the holiday festivities.

Seifert said that moms and dads need to first, explain to their kids what is frightening them and that it simply is not real.

Also, parents need to monitor what places their kids are visiting in order to avoid a possible traumatic experience and to be selective in what costumes they choose for their child to wear.

“Halloween is fun, but it is meant to be scary,” said Seifert.

“So you have to pay attention if whether your children are going to be scared by what they see, so having a good conversation about Halloween and that it’s pretend, it’s make believe,” she said.