Halloween is just around the corner, and everywhere I turn I see a new costume store. My two girls are keeping it royal this year. My four-year-old is sporting the most fab of wigs that goes down past her knees as she will be skipping around this year dressed up like Rapunzel from Disney’s Tangled. To my surprise, my nine-year-old stayed on the same theme, but went a little more classic as she picked out her Snow White dress. The question left now is: what is mommy going to be?
I can’t seem to find an adult costume that isn’t low cut or hints at me being provocative. Now don’t get me wrong, I am all for feeling sexy once in a while, but not while I am walking around with my princesses door to door. This leads me to ask, what should we allow our children to wear this Halloween? Is it okay for them to walk around in thigh high boots? Is it tasteful to let your son walk around looking like Satan himself? Why is everything on the market bloody or overtly sexy? What alternatives do we have if we are not okay with this style?
Photo by: Flickr
I personally have my own set of Halloween costume rules for my kids, and they stem from a spiritual perspective. My girls know that our costumes are an expression of fun, but they also respect that we never dress up like anything glorifying witchcraft, the devil, or any gore, nor will they ever be allowed to sexy up their costume.
Though some may find this strict or even ridiculous, it doesn’t take away from the fun and definitely leaves plenty of room for creativity. Last year my youngest was a beautiful flower and sported a gnarly neon pink wig. My oldest was a ladybug and her black wig drove her nuts! I want to hear from you moms and what your perspective is.
2 thoughts on “The Great Halloween Costume Debate”
After reading this I have to admit I’m a little embarrassed. I usally let my kids choose thier costumes. Anything goes as long as its not offensive and they know its just dress up. I only have one girl and I agree 100% on not dressing so sexual for Halloween. This year she is 12 and so far doesn’t want to dress up. This saddened me because she is growing so fast. My oldest who is 15 and a boy also said he doesn’t want to dress up this year. As for my two little ones my 7 year old is the scary character from scream. My 3 year old believe it or not chose a Jason mask from Friday the 13th. I was a little hesitant at first but I know the reason behind getting these costumes. They are boys and they find it hilarious to scare people. They know its just a costume and also they are well aware that a scary movie is not real. This is the current situation in my home. I really enjoyed reading your blog. I also respect your decision of keeping Halloween costumes respectful. I think more parents should care this much especially when it comes to our little girls. I look forward to reading more. Very good topic.
Jessica thank you so much for taking the time to not only read my blog but also respond. I think so much of the world has sexualized not only women but our little girls as well and I’m doing my best to teach them early on to respect themselves and their bodies. The idea behind no scary costumes is more of a spiritual thing in our home, however I pass no judgement on the awesome makeup that I saw this year with the zombie craze. I saw a very artistic sadistic Santa who called himself our worst nightmare and I found it hilarious. My 4 year old did not agree it was so funny and was not too happy with the zombies walking around it was then where I was able to explain to her the reality of the fiction in it all. Please continue to share your thoughts on the different blog topics as well as posting some ideas for topics that you would like to see!