Spook-Free Halloween for Kids
Sep 08, 2023
Not-Scary Halloween Decor & Traditions for Kids and Families
**Updated Sept 2025**
Hey friends! You know how much I love making holidays magical and fun for kids. Christmas, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, you name it, I go all in. But I’ll be honest: I’ve always struggled with Halloween.
I don’t love the gore, the fear, the witches, ghosts, or anything that celebrates death. That side of Halloween just isn’t for me. But pumpkins, sparkles, fun costumes, and parties with friends? Yes, please! That’s the kind of non-scary Halloween fun my family and I are here for.
And when I asked on Instagram recently if anyone else felt the same way, I was shocked by how many moms said: “Me too!” Turns out, a lot of us want to celebrate Halloween with kids in a way that’s festive and exciting, without the spooky or scary side.
So today, I’m sharing a round-up of Halloween ideas for kids that skip the fear factor. Trust me, your kids won’t feel like they’re missing out.
1. Non-Scary Halloween Decorations
Just because you’re avoiding the spooky side doesn’t mean you can’t decorate your home for Halloween!
BEST TARGET HALLOWEEN DECOR 2025
20" Large Green Velvet Door Bow
20" Large Orange Velvet Door Bow
Disco Glass Pumpkin - Purple
Disco Glass Pumpkin - Pink
Disco Glass Pumpkin - Silver
Terracotta Textured Jack o Lantern
BEST AMAZON HALLOWEEN DECOR 2025
Happy Halloween Balloon Banner
Lighted Halloween Tree Branches
Orange Buffalo Plaid Fleece Throw
7.5 Foot Outdoor Halloween Inflatable Pumpkins
Mackenzie-Childs Halloween Dish Towel
Mackenzie-Childs Halloween Pumpkins
Mackenzie-Childs Medium Pumpkin
Orange & Black Plaid Table Runner
2. Friendly Halloween Reminders for Moms
**DON'T FORGET YOUR PUMPKIN CARVING KIT**
Amazon Version:
Target Version:
**Don't forget glowsticks to keep kids safe while trick-or-treating!**
These are a must-have for trick-or-treating! The kids think they are so fun AND they help you keep an eye on your kids. They also make it easier for any cars passing by to see kids as it's getting dark.
3. Family-Friendly Halloween Food
Halloween food doesn’t have to be gross or creepy. I love these ideas!
Halloween Pretzels from Money Wise Moms
Everything Bagel Cheese Ball by Inspired by Charm
Halloween Whoopie Pies by Delicious Little Bites
Jack o Lantern Pizza Pockets by Dinner at the Zoo
4. Festive T-Shirts and Pajamas for Kids
One of the easiest ways to build excitement for Halloween—without the spooky factor—is through festive clothes. Kids love getting dressed up, and swapping out everyday outfits for Halloween-themed t-shirts or pajamas is a fun tradition you can start right away.
Halloween t-shirts are perfect for wearing to school in the weeks leading up to the holiday, while cozy Halloween PJs make bedtime extra fun. Some families even do a “Halloween Eve Pajama Tradition,” where kids get a new pair of festive pajamas to wear the night before trick-or-treating. Not only does this add excitement, but it also creates fun photo opportunities and memories your kids will love looking back on.
Pro tip: Buy a size up so your kids can enjoy their festive PJs for more than one Halloween season!
Toddler Boy Pumpkin Farm Outfit - Target
Target Toddler Girl Pumpkin Dress
5. Halloween Books for Kids
Books are another wonderful way to embrace Halloween without diving into the scary side. There are so many sweet, funny, and magical Halloween-themed picture books that focus on pumpkins, costumes, and friendship. Reading together is a cozy tradition you can enjoy all October long, and it gives kids a positive, fun perspective on the holiday.
Some family favorites include:
You can create a small basket or shelf of Halloween books that only comes out in October, just like Christmas books in December. This makes them feel extra special and keeps the tradition alive year after year.
6. Make Halloween Fun!
The truth is, Halloween doesn’t have to be about fear at all. For our family, it’s about:
-
Gathering with friends.
-
Wearing fun costumes.
-
Eating festive treats.
-
Making memories together.
By focusing on the joyful traditions, your kids won’t feel like they’re “missing out.” Instead, they’ll remember Halloween as a time of fun, laughter, and celebration.
Permission to Celebrate Halloween Your Way
You don’t have to do Halloween like everyone else. If you want to skip the scary side of the holiday, you absolutely can, and still make it magical. Focus on what you love: pumpkins, costumes, food, friends, and fun. Give yourself permission to celebrate Halloween your way and, as always, let it be easy.
What am I missing?
I'd love to see your ideas! If you have any T-shirts, home decor, tabletop decor, etc. send them my way! [email protected]
Come join the fun over on Instagram!
Want more simple family traditions and holiday inspiration? Join the fun over on Instagram, where I share daily hacks and ideas for moms who love creating joy at home.
Thanks for being here, friends!
Until next time, let's Elevate Motherhood!!
Elevate Motherhood Home Organization Master Class
I've always loved home organization and I've read ALL the books! But, when I became a mom, I realized so much information was missing! I've combined my love for motherhood and love for organization and created a Home Organization Master Class for moms! We'll get your home to work for you (and your family), let things be easy, simplify & declutter, and foster independence for kids. If you have a heart for homemaking or need life to feel easier at home, this is for you!!
Get All Things Elevate Motherhood!
Sign up for our weekly email & getĀ all the best deals!
You may unsubscribe at any time.
