There seemed to be a lot of discussion over the tradition of halloween at the weekend and in particular trick or treating. Is it a form of socially acceptable kiddie robbery that will give kids the idea that it is OK to intimidate others for treats or is it just a bit of fun?
I took my four year old to a halloween party at his friends house on Saturday. The kids had a great time getting dressed up, playing games, eating cakes and terrorising the mums and dads. After dark they all went trick or treating and in the streets around where we live. There were plenty of other trick or treaters ranging in age from about 2-12 and I watched a few of the house holders receptions to the kids and they were all positive and duly paid up in sweets so no penalties were necessary - not that we armed the 4 year olds with anything malicious.
It was all pretty different to the horror stories of gang style intimidation on people doorsteps and fireworks through letter boxes.
I have never been into Halloween in a big way but actually quite enjoyed this one and also felt that the atmosphere was more one of community cohesion than intimidation and twisted morals.
How do you feel about Halloween; Is it just a bit of fun for the kids or is it going to leave them all messed up with no sense of right and wrong?
Results
Is Trick or treat just a bit of fun or something more sinister?
Just a bit of fun - i like it.
It's wrong - It teaches kids that they can expect something for nothing
This poll closed on 05/11/2009
