Tween Halloween Contract

I woke up this morning feeling anxious.  My tween was planning to trick-or-treat in a friend's neighborhood.  I didn't know how to go about setting limits and boundaries when my tween was going to be in a different place.  So I Googled "halloween contract for tweens." No results. On Google. Not even on page 3.

So I wrote one. It may not fit every family but it works for me. I highly encourage parents to copy it, distribute it, use it, amend it. I know I feel better already!

Happy Halloween!

p.s. this contract may not be appreciated if you are not of the Free Range Kids (check out the blog, it's awesome) mindset. I encourage you to "take what you like and leave the rest!"

Susan

Susan Eppley, ECE, LPC

www.ParentCoachAtlanta.com

Our 2013 Halloween Contract

This is our Halloween Contract.  We will discuss this in detail before we sign. If a change is to be made, we will make a note and initial it. Use your God-given gifts and talents to follow this contract to the letter. If you break any part of this contract, there will be a consequence that you will not like. Trust me.

• Provide to me list of the names of all the kids you’ll be with: First and Last names, written neatly on paper.
• Provide a Contact Parent Name: A Contact Parent is one of the kids’ parents (from the above-referenced list). Neatly write this parent’s name and phone number on the list. Circle it. Put this name and number in your cell phone. I will call this parent before you leave home to confirm tonight’s plan (see bullet point below) This is the adult you will contact (besides me) should you need anything.
• Make a plan: Since you will be in another kid’s neighborhood, you need to have a specific plan. I want to know what neighborhood you’ll be in and the boundary streets (the outer streets you’ll stay within). I want to know when you will begin trick-or-treating and when you will end. If I am not satisfied with the “plan,” I reserve the right veto it and request a new plan. Once you have a plan, write it neatly on paper and give it to me.
• Bring your charged cell phone: Use the flashlight feature. It’s going to be very dark with no moon. Watch your step. Keep the ringer on.  If I call you, you must answer (remember the cell phone contract). Period.
• Stay in a group: You are to be with your friends at all times. Do not split from the group.  If you do get separated from your group, call your friends and immediately get back together. If they do not answer, call me or the Contact Parent immediately. We will help you get back with your friends (in a way that minimizes any embarrassment to you).
• Obey traffic laws: TRY to stay on the sidewalks. Some drivers are distracted (or worse). Do not assume drivers of cars see you. Look both ways before crossing!  Use your phone flash lights!
• Stay Outside: Halloween is a time to be outside getting treats. If you have to go to the bathroom, go to a neighbor’s house that YOU know. Or hold it. Never go into someone’s house that you do not know personally. Never ever.
• Be home by curfew: Curfew is             . Do not be late. Just don’t.
• Do not accept drinks or food from unknown people: No matter how hungry or thirsty you are. Eat something and drink something before you go.
• Do not drink alcohol or do drugs: Even if it’s just to “try it.” It is illegal.You are too young. If you do, I will find out. That is a promise.

NOTE:  If you don’t feel comfortable following this contract to the letter, then you are not ready to trick or treat in another neighborhood. Love, Mom

• I agree to the above and will provide all the necessary information.
• I understand that this contract may be amended before I leave for Halloween.
• I understand that going to a different neighborhood for Halloween makes my mom nervous and that she is creating this contract so I can enjoy freedom with friends and she can enjoy freedom from worry.

Signed:  Mom:                              Tween: