With Halloween around the corner, it can't be denied that the holiday season will be different this year. COVID has impacted everyone and it will change how we approach festivities. The CDC has advised that regular trick or treating poses a significant risk, so families should look at alternatives this year. However, that doesn't mean our children can't have a fantastic (and safe) night of trick-or-treating in their costumes! Here are our top three CDC-approved tips for trick or treating safely this year.

1. Scavenger Trick-Or-Treating (Low Risk)

Scavenger trick-or-treating is like a mash-up of Easter and Halloween! Place the candy in hidden locations throughout your home and yard and send the kids out to search them all out. Your kids will still have fun, get some physical activity in, and end the night with a big back of candy.

2. One Way Trick-or-Treating (Moderate Risk)

One way trick-or-treating will require some planning. Get your neighborhood to agree to put out individually wrapped goodie bags for each family. As kids trick-or-treat, they can remain at a safe six-feet distance by grabbing the goodie bags from the lawn or the edge of the house.

If you choose this option, make sure to educate all your neighbors on the importance of washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before making the bags. Kids should be instructed only to touch the goodie bag they decide to take with them, so they avoid rifling through all the options.

3. Creative Candy Dispensing Options (Low Risk)

We have to mention the creative ways people have already thought of safely delivering candy to trick-or-treaters. Some of these tactics include:

• Building a "candy chute" that allows the owner to drop candy down a slide and have it delivered to the child, at a six-feet or larger distance.
• Using remote-controlled cars or drones to deliver candy to children from at least six-feet
• Throwing candy a six-feet distance to the child. (Note: Hopefully, you have great aim if you're considering this option!)
• Leaving a bowl of candy on your front porch with sanitizer next to it and a sign asking everyone to sanitize their hands before taking candy.

Whatever option you or your neighbors choose, remember that your priority should be to stay safe and remain at a distance. Make sure you and your children:

• Wear masks
• Sanitize after touching anything
• Remain six-feet from other people
• Avoid touching your face
• Don't share candy bowls, props, or toys
• Stay home if you're feeling sick