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This year, Halloween will be a bit different for students in the Evanston-Skokie school district, located in the suburbs of Chicago. School officials recently announced they would be discontinuing traditional Halloween festivities within the classroom. Their explanation to parents was straightforward: not all families celebrate Halloween, and they want to be respectful of that diversity. Additionally, they highlighted the various inequalities that can arise from Halloween celebrations, which may unintentionally harm students, their families, and school staff.
Following the announcement, reactions from parents, locals, and individuals nationwide varied widely. After reading several responses—including some letters to the editor—I realized one thing: everyone should just take a breath. It’s not as if they’ve banned you from ordering those seasonal drinks at Starbucks—the Sally or Joker frappe if you please.
This district’s decision isn’t isolated; many schools across the country are re-evaluating long-standing traditions to prioritize the well-being of all students. And honestly, I’m all for it. You might want to be too.
In my own children’s public school district, we will continue with our traditional Halloween parties, including costume parades, but there will be no food allowed at any of the three holiday events, nor will special birthday treats be permitted. The risk of allergic reactions for sensitive students is simply too high, and many parents can’t afford to bring snacks for an entire class of twenty-five kids.
Personally, I support the new food policy. With three of my four children having food allergies, it’s a relief to know there’s no longer a risk of cross-contamination. There are countless other enjoyable activities—like games, music, and crafts—that don’t carry the same risks.
Despite some parents expressing their frustrations on social media, I reminded them that they should consider themselves fortunate not to have to carry an Epipen, anxiously hoping their child wouldn’t come into contact with a dangerous allergen.
Our schools also provided guidelines for Halloween costumes, banning weapons, masks, gore, and any potentially offensive outfits (don’t even get me started on the kid who wore a MAGA-themed costume last year). While these rules are sensible, I do wonder about the need for Halloween celebrations in schools in this day and age.
Now, before you send me an angry tweet, know that I adore holiday celebrations, especially Christmas. My house is filled with Black Santas and nativity scenes, and I’m that person who starts a Christmas countdown on my social media two months early. However, just because I choose to celebrate enthusiastically at home doesn’t mean my holiday spirit is diminished if my children’s schools don’t host parties. I’m an adult; I can handle it. And guess what? My kids will be fine too.
For those upset about the cancellation of holiday parties at school, take heart—there are plenty of ways for families to celebrate, if they choose. Visit a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, enjoy a haunted house, or host a bonfire. You can trick-or-treat, attend your town’s Halloween parade, or simply cozy up at home in pajamas with some hot chocolate while reading Halloween books and watching Hocus Pocus.
The truth is, not everyone celebrates Halloween—or Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or Thanksgiving. So why do we allocate hours during the school day for these celebrations? I was reminded of this when I overheard a woman at my local library discussing American holiday traditions. She remarked, “Thanksgiving feels so strange to me.” This thought struck me, as what is customary for many isn’t necessarily enjoyable for others, and that’s perfectly acceptable.
The financial strain that some holidays impose on struggling families is another reason I support schools in their decision to reduce or eliminate specific celebrations. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I experienced firsthand how such festivities could highlight disparities. I vividly remember a classmate, Lily, who was too embarrassed to participate in Halloween celebrations because her family couldn’t afford a costume. After a brief conversation with her, I helped her create a makeshift outfit from items in the lost-and-found bin, and her smile was priceless.
Fast forward to high school, where my friend Jenna, a Jehovah’s Witness, couldn’t celebrate any holidays—including Halloween, Christmas, or her own birthday. Her parents often pulled her from school during these times to spare her from feeling isolated. These scenarios highlight that no child should feel excluded or embarrassed because a holiday doesn’t resonate with them.
Moreover, let’s take a moment to appreciate the relief from the pressures of coordinating parties, managing room parents, and organizing activities for twenty energetic children. Wouldn’t you rather spend your vacation days enjoying time with your family instead of wrangling sugar-fueled first graders?
If you’re one of those families who believes Halloween is the ultimate holiday, that’s great! The ingredients for s’mores, candy corn, and costumes are readily available for you to enjoy as you trick-or-treat in your neighborhood. But for those who prefer to skip the pumpkins and zombies—or the ornaments and candy canes—that’s perfectly fine too.
In conclusion, whether celebrating or not, it’s important to remember that all families can find their own ways to honor holidays, as they see fit. For more insights into fertility journeys and home insemination, check out this post. And for a reliable option in home insemination kits, visit this link. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC is an excellent resource.
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