Have you ever seen a little baby in a Halloween costume? Talk about cute! It's almost unfair to all the doe-eyed puppies and mewing kittens of the world.
Of course, babies can pull off anything; they are babies after all, so nobody really expects much from them. But that's exactly why you have to be careful with them. If you're going to dress your little tyke up, make sure it's safe as well as cute. Here is how to choose a costume that should be entirely safe for your little one.
Step 1: Double-Check for Loose Parts
Just as you'd check anything else your baby wears give the Halloween costume the once-over. Check for loose threads, zippers, buttons, snaps and even Velcro. IF possible tighten anything that is loose, or remove it. Â Ensure that chin straps will hold. Baby love to pull on these and of course everything goes in the mouth.
Step 2: Watch the Weather
Trick-or-treating outdoors can be a chilly enterprise in late October. Be sure that the child's costume is large enough to allow layering, pajamas, or some form of insulated clothing underneath. If it turns out that it's going to warm, select a costume that's not too heavy and hot. And see if short sleeves will fit the theme of the costume.
Step 3: Consider Visibility
Sometimes those cute costumes cover parts of the face and block visibility. And while hats and hoods are often part of the look, they can be dangerous for kids who are still coming to terms with their motor functions. Make sure your little one can see where he/she is going, and can walk around without tripping.
Step 4: Confirm that it's a Fire-Retardant Costume
Manufacturers have done rather well making baby sleepwear fire-retardant, but they haven't been as diligent when it comes to baby costumes. Strange, too, since we put live candles in our jack-o-lanterns. Their costumes probably won't come too close to that open flame, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Step 5: Use Reflective Tape
This particular step is crucial for those little ones who will be out trick-or-treating on foot. Put a strip of reflective tape in a few inconspicuous places that can still be seen by anyone driving at night. It's still good to have a flashlight also, but don't let that replace the reflective tape. It works great during the twilight hours as well.
Step 6: Avoid Bunching Bunting
Those bunting infant costumes are so dang cute, and cozy too. Just be sure that it fits properly and that the fabric doesn't bunch in front of your child's mouth or nose.
Step 7: Forego the Mask
Masks for children seem to be less popular than they used to be, which is good thing. A little make up can make them just as cute, and you can still see their adorable little faces. Masks also have the distinct tendency of annoying babies, which is just as well. You don't want anything too close to their mouths and noses.
Step 8: Make Sure There are No Itchy Fabrics
Carefully choose the fabric of the costume your little one will be wearing. If it's uncomfortable or itchy, you'll regret the decision all night. After all, infants aren't exactly shy about expressing their discomfort. Look for costumes made of cotton, fleece or velour.
Halloween is great holiday; it's a lot of fun for kids and adults. Part of the adult fun is dressing up our little ones. That doesn't have to be a problem — just be sure and treat your baby, well, like a baby.
Image via Flickr by juhansonin
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