As Halloween creeps closer, kids are gearing up for candy, costumes, haunted houses and spending the evening with their friends. But while they're reveling in the spooky season, many parents are left wondering how all the Halloween excitement impacts their kids’ rest. Between late-night trick-or-treating, sugary treats, and eerie decorations, Halloween is a perfect storm for disrupted sleep.

Sugar Rushes and Sleep Crashes

It’s no surprise that Halloween candy can stir things up! Sugar acts as a stimulant, making it harder for kids to wind down. According to Dr. Nilong Vyas, pediatrician and sleep coach, sugar can create a "high" followed by a crash, leaving kids restless at bedtime. And if your little goblins sneak a chocolate bar or two, the caffeine just adds to the problem.

Scary Movies and Nightmare Fuel

Beyond candy, Halloween's spooky factor can impact kids' sleep. From haunted house visits to scary movies and hyper realistic decorations with jump scares, the sights and sounds of Halloween can be overwhelming. Dr. Vyas notes that costumes and decorations, especially the lifelike ones, can spark kids' imaginations and lead to nightmares. So, if your child is prone to spooky thoughts, consider minimizing exposure to frightening images and experiences!

Setting Up for Sweet Dreams

The good news? A little prep can go a long way! Talk to your kids about what to expect on Halloween night and remind them that costumes and decorations aren’t real. Planning a winding-down routine after trick-or-treating can also help – maybe counting candy, a warm bath or reading a favorite (non-scary!) story before bed.

For teens, who might be tempted to stay out late, set reasonable curfews and check in about any anxiety they might have around Halloween activities.

What We Have Learned

With a few simple steps, you can help your family enjoy Halloween without sacrificing sleep. Here’s to a fun, festive, and restful spooky season!

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Dream big, work hard, sleep ambitiously,

Joe Castignani