Haunted House Tips

So, you’re taking your child on his or her first trip through a haunted house? Sounds like fun. However, before you step through the front door, you may want to take a few moments to go over a few tips for visiting a haunted house for the first time.

• Take some time to talk about what a haunted house is and some of the things your child may encounter. Remind him or her that the whole activity is make believe.
• Ask the people running the haunted house what to expect. If your child has a specific phobia, such as a fear of clowns, make sure the house doesn’t feature items that will trigger that phobia. (I’m not even afraid of clowns, but seeing that jolly looking clown inside the entrance to a very creepy haunted house…Yikes.)
• Stow a flashlight in your bag. If your child absolutely freaks out, you’ll want a good source of light as you try to calm him or her down.
• Make sure your child is wearing sensible shoes and that his or her costume fits properly. Tripping or catching clothing on something can make a fun scare into a truly frightening experience.
• Don’t force the issue. If your child is reluctant to go into the house, you may just have to try again next year.

Do you have any tips for a first visit to a haunted house?

Photo: SXC