As Christians, we understand that our ultimate hope and security lie in Christ alone. However, we also recognize that our children and grandchildren may struggle with very real fears and anxieties, especially during the Halloween season. Here are some ways we can lovingly support and guide them through this challenging time.
First and foremost, we must ground our approach in Scripture. For children who are afraid of Halloween-related things or activities, encourage them to think about how much bigger and stronger God is than the thing that is making them scared (Psalm 24:8, Romans 8:38-39, Zephaniah 3:17). Rather than allowing them to dwell on the gruesome and negative, encourage them to look away from those things and focus on things that have admirable qualities (Philippians 4:8). Remind your children that God is sovereign over all things, including the darkness that seems to loom large during Halloween. Emphasize God’s power and Christ’s work in saving us from everything having to do with death and evil (1 Corinthians 15:53-57). Memorizing verses like Psalm 56:3-4, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you,” can be powerful tools for combating fear.
Open communication is crucial. If you have younger children, consider talking to children in advance about what you might see as you are out and about at the store or in your neighborhood, and how they engage it in a healthy and constructive way. You might say something such as, “When we drive around the neighborhood, you might see some decorations that look scary. They are just pretend, and they can’t hurt us so we don’t have to be scared of them.” Encourage children to differentiate between what is real (death is real, but God gives us hope) and what is fake (the plastic skeletons in the neighbor’s front yard are fake).
Prayer should be at the center of our response. Pray with and for your children, asking God to replace their fear with His peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Teach them to turn to prayer as their first response when anxiety strikes.
As your children get older, have open conversations with them about why your family does or doesn’t celebrate Halloween. If your child is struggling with not celebrating, even when all of their friends are, explain to them that the goal is not to restrict any fun or enjoyment, but rather to honor and glorify God. Use this as an opportunity to teach discernment and how to engage with culture from a biblical worldview. Consider helping them host their friends for a dinner or get-together instead.
For children who are dealing with more severe anxiety or depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a Christian counselor or therapist who specializes in working with children.
By pointing them consistently to the gospel and the character of God, we can help our children navigate not just Halloween, but all of life’s challenges with courage and a biblical worldview. In all things, let us model trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, knowing that He works all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Through our faithful witness and loving guidance, may our children come to know the perfect love that casts out all fear (1 John 4:18).