Rhonwyn Newson: Four reasons I love Halloween

Halloween - a fun time for children. Photo / Thinkstock

This Friday I will take my kids trick or treating. No, I'm not American nor am I pagan. And yes, I do care about what my children eat and I also teach them about stranger danger.

Now, I realise there are many who don't like the idea of Halloween. That's fine - each to their own. But here are four reasons why celebrating Halloween isn't so bad.

1. Community spirit

Last year I took my child trick or treating for the first time. My coffee group friends joined in with their kids. I had forewarned my neighbours by posting a letter explaining that we would be calling and inviting the other children in the street to join in with their parents. I also gave everyone a "no trick or treating" sign to put up if they didn't want to participate. It was great! I met so many neighbours and our children all got along and had a ball. Some neighbours decorated their houses and dressed up in anticipation of our arrival. It only lasted around 40 minutes, but it was so much fun. Some lasting friendships began that night - there was a great sense of community.

2. Kids love it

Of course trick or treating was fun but my child also loved the anticipation of the event - getting dressed up and draping our lounge in fake spider-webs, and creating themed dishes to share for our potluck post trick or treat dinner. Now, I know there's the argument that we teach our children not to take candy from strangers, so why do it on Halloween? But really, if we're okay with forcing our kids to sit on some bearded dude's lap for a photo at Christmas time, then this is no worse I reckon.

3. Indulge your creativity

If getting into the spirit (sorry!) of Halloween is your bag, there are endless ideas to make your night fun. From dress-ups and house decorations, to themed food and activities. It's not necessary to spend a fortune; there are some great ideas for a DIY Halloween.

4. It doesn't have to be sugar-laden

Sure, there's the bag of loot that children receive from trick or treating that may not appeal to parents. To be honest, it seems like kids enjoy the actual act of trick or treating more than the goodies they go home with. My children don't get cookies, lollies, cakes and chocolate every day. So when they get their treats, that's what they'll be - treats. They'll be allowed a few on the night, and the rest will be stashed away, to be doled out over time. If last year is anything to go by, they will lose interest very quickly.