Halloween originating back during the 16th century in Scotland, Ireland, Americans now take their children around the neighborhood, knocking door to door in hopes that someone will appear from the door with a bowl of candy in hand. At some age, many lose the excitement over the idea of dressing up and knocking on their neighbors’ doors, hoping to get a King-size candy bar. However, some still enjoy the popular tradition, including numerous OH students.
“As a teen I would be annoyed, but from a parent’s point of view, I wouldn’t mind it, and I feel my kids will be safer,” said OH senior Yaritzel Gonzalez.
While there isn’t a nationwide age limit to participate in the activity, some cities have separate sets of rules and laws on the topic. According to Parents magazine, “In Belleville, Illinois, children over the age of 12 are not allowed to wear masks, and children ninth grade and above are not allowed to participate in trick-or-treating.”
The safety of children is ultimately the reason for the rules placed on the activity. According to a survey done by Safe Kids Worldwide, one of the biggest concerns for parents is their child being abducted. With so many people dressing up and wearing masks, it is far easier for kids to get taken on Halloween night. Adding age restrictions on trick-or-treating prevents potential kidnappers from being able to fit in the bunch to be able to abduct children.
“I let my kids go trick-or-treating alone once they are in middle school if they are around a group with their location on and I’ve made sure that they know what to do, but this is a very safe area and friendly for the children so I wouldn’t be worried as much as I would be from a different area,” said Oswego resident Daniel Gill.
Depending on the area you live in, the well-known and fun trick-or-treating activity can turn into a nightmare. Luckily for us, we live in a safe environment that allows the children of the community to go out and have fun without parents having to worry about anything happening.
Hi Jeremiah! I used to be a little annoyed with older kids coming to my door, but as my own children grew up and still enjoyed trick-or-treating I changed my views. I am happy to give candy to anyone who comes to my door, so feel free to stop by on 10-31!