On Halloween Night kids of all ages go trick-or-treating, some with parents, others with friends, some old and some younger than others. As kids get older they have to face the decision of continuing trick-or-treating or conforming to teenager activities like parties and focusing on the trick in trick-or-treat. Students and communities can benefit from trick-or-treating of all ages, although students could miss out on the type of memories future parents can tell their children stories about.
As students grow up, the question of when to stop trick-or-treating becomes harder to answer. Many think it depends on the child and what they enjoy about Halloween. Some students and teachers at Shadow Ridge High School shared their thoughts on when it might be time to hang up the candy bag.
“I don’t think there is a specific time that is best to stop trick-or-treating. I think as long as it keeps them from doing destructive teen things they should trick-or-treat,” Ms. Brakney, a teacher at Shadow Ridge, said.
The statement shows how trick-or-treating can be a positive outlet for students on a night filled with bad influences. It is a chance for kids who are pressured to be mature, let loose and be a kid again and get candy while enjoying a holiday most adored when young. Others believe that eventually, the fun of trick-or-treating can shift into new forms of fun on Halloween night.
“I stopped in eighth grade because I really enjoyed handing out candy instead of going and getting the candy,” Mr. Frank, another teacher at Shadow Ridge, shared his perspective.
For some like Mr. Frank, growing out of trick-or-treating isn’t about losing interest, it’s about finding new ways to enjoy the holiday while still being part of the fun. Frank enjoys giving rather than receiving and makes a difference in the lives of others and in their Halloween spirit. Some students, however, believe participants are never too old to dress up and collect candy.
“I don’t think you should ever stop, I think trick-or-treating is an opportunity to spend time with friends and family,” sophomore Abbie McArthur shared.
McArthur’s comment represents many high school students who continue to enjoy the nostalgia and excitement that comes with Halloween night. For them, the activity is less about the candy and more about the memories made along the way. No matter the age, Halloween gives everyone the chance to celebrate and enjoy themselves. Whether students are trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or going to a haunted house, the important part is participating in the fun. Halloween traditions may change with age, but the excitement and spirit of the night stay the same.
