Not Your Mother’s Teen Halloween Costumes
Tuesday, September 8th, 2009No one likes to play the part of the responsible parent. Sometimes, choosing appropriate teen Halloween costumes can force a parent into such a position.
Teenagers are stuck between being children and adults. The combination of lack
of experience and desire for independence can create some tense parent-teenager
situations. Halloween should not be time of turmoil in your household. A few
things can help as your teenager begins searching for the teen Halloween costumes
that they want, and that you approve of.
As a young adult, your child’s mind is excited to try new things. They will
hear things from friends, and see things. Shopping for teen Halloween costumes
can be a nightmare. Some are geared towards older young adults, and may not
be appropriate for your teenager. Even some tween costume ideas can be questionable.
When confronted with this conflict, remember to hold your ground while maintaining
some level of understanding.
Angel Halloween Costume
List of Teen Halloween Costumes
House of 1000 Corpses costumes
If your son or daughter has not yet mentioned what they will be dressing as
for a friend’s Halloween party, it may be a good idea to ask. Keeping the lines
of communication open early will help avoid a potentially embarrassing scene
later. You do not want to prepare to take your teen to the party only to argue
about it at the last minute after you see what they think they will be wearing!
Some teenagers handle this stage in their lives better than others do. I think
it is safe to say most all of us find that in our teens we were, for lack of
another word, moody. Remember that, as the parent, your approach can make all
the difference. Even if they do not like what you have to say. Treat them as
an adult, but remember they are a young adult and guidance is still important.
Communication is also important when your teen starts going to parties with
friends. In the end, the lessons you have taught them will be the most important
part of their responsible decision-making. That does not mean you should simply
cut them loose for the evening and let them know you will see them tomorrow.
Ask your teen where they plan to spend the holiday, and who they will spend
it with. Let them know you are concerned, even if they do not like it.
If your child has not yet reached teenager-hood, you may only have to deal
with the discussion of which preteen costume they can choose. However, if they
are older, you may also need to worry about where they will be going as well
as what they will wear. Be flexible on the holidays. If you do not want your
son or daughter riding with a friend who just got their driver’s license
then consider offering to drive or carpool with another parent.
Understanding can be a big part of getting along. When you were a teen, your
parents were probably the most disagreeable people in your life. Now, you know
why. Use that knowledge to your advantage. Try to approach things in a constructive,
rather than aggressive, way. Do not compromise your principles, but explain
your reasoning and understand that it can be hard to see the entire picture
when you are young.
Teen Halloween costumes are only the beginning of your worries as a parent
during this holiday of tricks and treats. Be open with your son or daughter
and keep the lines of communication flowing. Express your guidelines early on
so that when it comes time for them to attend a party or choose what to wear,
the arguments are minimal. Some teen Halloween costumes may not be acceptable,
and if that is the case, offer suggestions to remedy the problem, such as wearing
a t-shirt underneath, or modifying the look. Most importantly remember that,
no matter how much they kick and scream they will thank you for it when they
are older.
