Creating memorable experiences for children

Can you count what would technically be the third Halloween for our twins as their first? Their real “first” Halloween was at three months. It doesn’t really count. Looking back at those pictures, they were so small, still opening their eyes to the world around them. And then, last year, with COVID, we didn’t “do” Halloween.

This year, I vowed, would be different. Nothing too extravagant. I mainly just want pictures with costumes.

I kept in mind some of the things that I knew they would love. Nothing gets Pip more excited than his fire trucks. He hears the siren and runs around the house – “Weee-ooowww, Weee-ooowww” –  and grabs his toy fire engine. When he picks out his clothes, he goes on the hunt for his bright red fire truck pajamas, shirts, underwear. God forbid if they’re in the wash.

Ollie loves his “Dinosnores.” Sandra Boynton’s bedtime tale of dinosaurs going to sleep is rivaled only by her “Dinosaur Dance.” Stomping, flapping, shaking, Ollie re-enacts the lovable dinos and their dance moves. Before they were even really saying words, Pip and Ollie could both snore along with their prehistoric pals.

It also seems the perfect age because their imagination is taking off in new directions. Imaginative play has exploded in our household. Nana Monkey and Honey Bunny are no longer simply loveys; they’re part of their day. Monkey and Bunny need juice; they like to ride the bouncy horses; they help construct towers out of blocks.

It’s fun to see these developments happen. A few months ago, their play seemed very rooted in routine and in cause and effect. Now, it’s as though a whole new world has opened up.

Having a 7-month-old, it’s mind-blowing to me to see (in real-time) just how quickly he, too, will grow up. It’s amazing to see the twins’ little personalities develop and showcase their individuality: both kids love fire trucks and dinosaurs, but each has developed his own unique tie to the specific toy that has become his favorite.

This Halloween will be special. We’re not going trick-or-treating at night, but we will take a family trip to the zoo for a “trunk or treat,” and the twins will have a Halloween party at their half-day program. Already, I can see the parents starting the competition with sign-ups for the party. Questions about baked goods and costume-making were in full progress as I headed to the car with my kids. I’ll just be relieved if I can remember to grab the juice boxes, costumes and treat bags in my rush out the door.

And so, we’ll be a motley crew: a firefighter, a dinosaur (or an Olliesaurus) and a tiny 7-month-old pumpkin. Here’s hoping it’s a fun-filled holiday.

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