Halloween is just around the corner, so it’s time to make some plans for what you’re going to do! Here are a couple of ShopAtHome.com’s favorite tips & tricks; for more fun Halloween ideas and safety tips, visit the Halloween Guide.

1. Buddy System: Always make sure that the kids go together when Trick-or-Treating and with an adult, if possible. If they are going out as a group without parents, make sure at least one child has a cell phone so you can stay in contact. It’s safer and less stressful when you know they’ll be together!

2. Keep the Party Home!: Whether you don’t want the kids wandering around the neighborhood, or think they’re too young to go out on their own, you can do an alternative: host a party! Decorate your basement or living room like a not-too-scary haunted house, have a bunch of snacks and candy, turn up the music and turn off the worry.

3. Candy Candy Candy!: When I was younger and Trick-or-Treating, I’d gorge myself on candy and I wouldn’t stop until I felt sick. Once the kids get back (and after they’re done counting and trading their candy bars!), limit the amount they can have. That way, they won’t feel sick and you won’t be exhausted because the little ones are on a never-ending sugar high.

4. Pumpkin Carving: A fun family tradition, pumpkin carving is a blast, but it can be dangerous for the little ones. Let them sketch their own designs, but do all the cutting yourself. And make sure to clean and bake the seeds for a yummy, healthy treat!

5. Cute Costuming: Let’s face it, Halloween costumes are EXPENSIVE. Keep the prices down by shopping during sales (check out the best days for Halloween Cash Back here on ShopAtHome.com) and getting the most from your money. Get creative and make a DIY costume!

It’s easy to have a safe and fun Halloween! Have any other tips that you’d add? Let us know in the comments!