Does your child want to dress as a much-too-sexy witch or a punk-rocker carrying a real beer bottle and cigarettes? Have you heard, "It's what everyone is wearing and I'll be a loser if you don't let me wear it!"

Resist the urge to give in to your child's pressure - it's a ploy! There will be many other kids dressed age-appropriately.

It's a battle worth fighting - when you allow your child to dress in a costume that sends the wrong message (no matter how fictitious or funny the costume seems), you blur the boundaries about what behavior is acceptable to you.

Has your 10-year-old asked to trick or treat with friends, with no parental supervision? What about your 12-year-old? How do you know the right time to allow this?

13 is the youngest age at which I recommend allowing unsupervised trick or treating. Halloween can be dangerous for the inexperienced. Children traveling - even in a group - may not know how to negotiate drunken teens, running across the street safely in the dark or unfriendly welcomes from homeowners or pets.

From 11 years old, allow a little independence by walking behind your group of kids to let them 'feel' independent, while still being there should they need you. Children under 11 should be fully supervised.

Your successful little trick or treater comes home with a hugepile of candy and begins digging in immediately.

"Stop! You can't eat all that candy."

"Why not?" responds your little angel. "It's mine; I want to eat it!"

What is the best way to manage a year's supply of sweets to avoid weight gain, sugar overload, and a bad case of "it's mine; I'll do what I want!"?

Resist the urge to use it (or any food) as a reward for good behavior.