 As a mom or a dad, you have a responsibility to teach your kids good values. By Trick-or-Treating for UNICEF, kids learn the importance of helping others in need while empowering them to make a real difference.
Now in its 55th year, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF has often been the very first volunteer opportunity for kids. And this year, it's even easier than ever for your child to celebrate Halloween while becoming a real world hero for UNICEF.
Learn more about how your family can take part in this time honored tradition beloved by generations. Then, download these parent resources to begin your campaign right now.
Tips for speaking to your children about UNICEF
1. Ask your kids about the following things that they might take for granted:
- Where does he or she get a drink when thirsty, or food when hungry?
- What does your child do when sick?
- Where does your child go to school?
2. Tell your kids about the lives of kids like them who live in developing countries in other parts of the world.
- In many parts of the world, children do not have access to clean water. They have to drink dirty water from a river or a stream, which can cause them to get very sick. Here in the U.S., we are lucky to have clean, safe water every time we turn on the faucet.
- Many children do not have access to the food they need to be healthy; some do not even have enough to eat when they are hungry.
- In the U.S., children get shots when they are babies to protect them from diseases and can visit the doctor whenever they are sick. However, in many parts of the world, children are not this lucky.
- Sometimes we complain about having to go to school. But there are many children in the world who would love to go to school but do not have the chance because they have obligations at home that prevent them from attending.
3. Explain to your kids how UNICEF helps their peers around the world.
- UNICEF builds water wells and pumps to bring clean water to millions of children all around the world.
- UNICEF brings nutrients to hungry children and teaches them how to grow their own food.
- UNICEF programs give medicine and shots, called immunizations, immunizations, to children who need them around the world. UNICEF provides immunizations to 40% of children in developing countries.
- UNICEF helps to build schools and provide educational materials, such as workbooks, pens, and chalkboards.
4. Recognize your child for his or her achievement. Plan a celebration, or download a certificate of appreciation.
What parents need to do on Halloween
 Make sure your child has dinner before leaving.
Know the route your children are taking.
Make sure children have identification on their clothing.
Make sure children are wearing comfortable shoes.
Set a time for Trick-or-Treaters to be home.
Make sure costumes are short enough to prevent children from tripping or falling.
Make sure all costumes are flame retardant.
If older children are heading out alone, make sure they have quarters for a pay phone or a cell phone.
Allow children to carry only flexible knives, swords or other props.
Check your child's treats for opened or tampered candy before allowing them to consume anything!
Make sure all children are accompanied by an adult or responsible teenager at all times!
Updated October 7, 2005
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