6 Essential Halloween Costume Safety Guidelines for Children

As Halloween creeps closer, kids are dreaming up their costumes. From ghosts and superheroes to witches, animals and everything in between! While dressing up is one of the best parts of the holiday, it’s important to keep safety in mind so your little ghouls and goblins can enjoy their trick-or-treating adventures without any real scares.

Here are some pediatrician-approved costume safety tips to help ensure a safe and fun Halloween for everyone:

1. Make Sure They Can See Clearly

• Costumes should never obstruct your child’s vision.
• Avoid masks that cover the eyes or face. If your child wants to wear one, make sure it fits snugly and the eye holes are large enough.
• Consider face paint or makeup as a safer alternative but be sure it’s non-toxic and hypoallergenic.
• Do a “sight check” before heading out: Ask your child to look around and walk in their costume to make sure their vision isn’t impaired.

2. Watch Those Feet!

• Trips and tumbles are common when costumes don’t fit well.
• Check costume length: Long hems can be a tripping hazard, especially in the dark.
• Shoes should be sturdy and comfortable, preferably something your child already wears regularly.

3. Fire Safety Matters

• Some Halloween decorations and candles can be fire hazards.
• Look for costumes labeled “flame-resistant” on the tag.
• Avoid costumes with loose, flowing fabric that could brush against open flames.
• Teach kids to stay away from lit pumpkins and candles.

4. Be Visible at Night

• Trick-or-treating often happens after darkness, so visibility is key.
• Add reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark stickers to costumes, candy bags, or shoes.
• Give your child a flashlight or glow sticks to carry.
• Choose light-colored costumes when possible.

5. Choose Safe Props

• Swords, wands, and accessories should be fun, not dangerous.
• Props should be soft, short and flexible.
• Avoid realistic-looking weapons, especially for older children.

6. Check for Allergens

• Costumes and face paints can contain materials that irritate the skin.
• If your child has sensitive skin or known allergies, check out costume labels for latex or common allergens.   
• Always do a patch test with makeup or face paint at least 24 hours before the big night.

Final Thought from Your Pediatrician

Halloween is about imagination and fun, but a few safety tweaks can go a long way in preventing injuries or scares. Check costumes ahead of time, test face paint and remind your child to walk (not run!) from house to house. 

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Bansri Patel, DO

Pediatric Resident

Dr. Bansri Patel is a California native coming to Valley Children’s from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona and is in her first year of postgraduate residency. Dr. Patel is an advocate for supporting children affected by domestic violence through therapeutic and educational activities. She strives to be an advocate for children and supporting them in their transitions from childhood to adulthood. Learn more about Dr. Patel here.  

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Natalie Pardo, DO

Pediatric Resident

Dr. Natalie Pardo is a California native who comes to Valley Children's from California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine and is in her second year of Postgraduate Residency. Dr. Pardo is an advocate for food security and follows a care philosophy of providing an educational foundation to help patients achieve their health goals. Learn more about Dr. Pardo here.