This Saturday the 31st of October, 2009 is All Hallows Eve. It is the last day of Summer on our calendar and the last day of the year on the ancient Celtic calendar. According to Celtic lore, the barrier between this world and the next is unusually thin on this night. It was so thin that spirits, good and evil, could pass through and enter our world. To ward off the bad spirits, people dressed up as evil spirits to keep from being haunted. This is the origin ofthe practice of dressing up on Hallowe’en.

What Time is Trick or Treating?
A suggested time for trick or treating would be between 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm for children 8 years and under, getting them home in time for supper and bedtime.
For children 8 – 12 years old, anytime between 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm is good, provided the neighborhood is safe, and adult supervision is provided.
Kids over 12 have a little more leeway, depending on the situations and adult guidance.

Safety Tips for Trick or Treating With Small Children
Children under a certain age should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Costumes and masks should not cover the eyes or ears, or restrict movement.
Costumes should have reflective tape on them, and be accompanied with a flashlight and whistle. Glow sticks are handy to have in their pockets as well.

Safety Tips for Older Trick or Treater’s
If your child is old enough to go alone, agree on a neighborhood route.
Agree on who the child is going with and make sure they have contact numbers and a cell phone with them.
Set a firm time as to when they will be home.
Stress to the child about the importance of not talking to strangers, or accepting rides from them.
Always check the candy over before they begin eating it. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.