Parents urged to prevent children making one 'mistake' on Halloween
Halloween is just around the corner, which means many children are excited, but parents have been warned against making one mistake on one of the most anticipated nights of the year
Halloween is just days away and, while many little ones may be excited, there are things some parents need to know, and it's not the first warning that's been issued about spooky season. October 31 brings with it plenty of sugar, costumes and excitement and, come bedtime, parents up and down the country will be wondering how to get their kids to switch off and settle down.
For many, it can be tough to help them get to sleep after such an exciting day, especially if they've munched on lots of sweets and chocolate. However, it's not only overindulging parents need to worry about, as something else could hinder your childen on Halloween too.
According to Dmitry Kandratsyeu, a games expert and Head of Product at Solitaires.com, handing your child a phone or tablet to have five minutes of peace and quiet isn't always the best idea, and there are some reasons why he thinks you need to keep an eye on their screen time.
The expert says the type of game that is played online matters more than most parents realise. In fact, choosing the wrong one could make bedtime even harder.
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Dmitry said: "After trick or treating, kids are overstimulated and full of sugar. It’s understandable that parents want a calm moment, but think about the games your children are playing online. Fast-paced games do the opposite and will keep the brain alert instead of helping it to relax."
Rapid-tap endless running games are designed to keep players hooked. They work by triggering quick reward loops, visual bursts and adrenaline rushes. These all tell the brain to stay active, according to the expert.
Dmitry added: "These games flood the brain with stimulation and excitement. They are creating the same kind of buzz most parents are trying to avoid before bed."
But, if you struggle to keep your kids away from games, there may be another way you can handle the issue. Dmitry says swapping fast-paced games for those more logic-based like Solitaire, Spite and Malice and FreeCell are good options.
These all rely on reasoning and rhythm instead of reflexes. He added: "They engage the brain in a calmer way and help it to slow down, focus and move into a meditative state. This is great for ending an exciting evening."
The games also come with other benefits. Dmitry explains that the predictable structure of these games and rule-based play helps you to feel grounded, something ideal after a night of sensory overload.
Sorting cards and following logical sequences can also quieten racing thoughts. You may even find that turning it into a family ritual helps.
Perhaps play a short game before bed instead of solo screen time, Dmitry suggests. He said: "It’s a small change, but switching from chaotic play to calm play can make all the difference, and the right kind of game can even help your child’s brain reset and prepare for rest."
You may not realise, but playing games too often at night can lead to potential issues. They are often very stimulating, and this can make it difficult for people to wind down and fall asleep.
Playing games before bed can hinder sleep patterns due to the blue light from screens suppressing the sleep hormone, melatonin. When children play games, they often become very excited, particularly when games are competitive or fast-paced.
This can make it hard for the brain to switch off, even after the game is over. And, with Halloween encouraging plenty of excitement as it is, it's something well worth remembering.