Halloween can be 'too' scary for some

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CHICAGO, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays for U.S. children but often parents may not be aware it can be too scary for some, a pediatrician says.

"The combination of excitement and sugar does not leave much room for judgment," Dr. Karen Judy, Loyola University Health System child safety expert and professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, said in a statement. "Make sure you talk to your kids before the holiday and set guidelines. I can't stress enough the importance of supervision."

Halloween can be scary, so talk to children to determine what children find "too" scary, Judy advised. Many children, even those who are older, are afraid to go out alone in the dark but are afraid to admit it, and while they may argue, appreciate having an adult coming along.

"If they get scared while trick-or-treating, a mature adult is a comforting presence," Judy said. "Though older siblings can be great baby sitters, the excitement of Halloween can leave the little ones in the dust."

Judy also advises to keep trick-or-treating short and close to home for smaller children. Parents will have a better idea of who will be answering the door. Little legs tire easily, so make sure children are wearing shoes that are good for walking.

Children should not cross the street without an adult until they are 10-years-old. If a child is younger than 10, make sure there is an adult present, Judy said.