Regardless of whether or not you celebrate Halloween in your family, it’s difficult to ignore the preparations going on all around us.

Grocery stores are stockpiling candy, costume supplies are everywhere and decorations have started appearing on front lawns.

But Halloween can be a tough time for a young child. Some decorations are frightening and it’s confusing to see loved ones in unfamiliar costumes.

In fact, children have a difficult time distinguishing fantasy from reality. They may really think Dad now wears an eye-patch permanently even though it’s just a part of a pirate costume.

If you decide to celebrate Halloween as a family this year, consider dressing up as real-life characters to avoid any unnecessary confusion! Here are 4 genres to choose from:

Sports Players

Baseball, basketball or tennis players are all real-life people that children will have seen. Pick your child’s favorite activity at the moment and dress up like you’re a professional!

Medical Professionals

EMT’s, doctors and nurses are all people we look to in our time of need. Give your child the option of dressing up as someone they’ve encountered before, like your pediatrician or nurse.

Loved Ones

Make a Mini-Me! Your child will love mimicking a family member for the evening, down to the clothes they wear and the things they eat or say. Try dressing up as Grandpa, a favorite Auntie or Mom and Dad. Get creative!

Historical Figures

Many children’s books feature historical figures like Amelia Earhart or Daniel Boone that your child comes to know and love. Pick one and dress like him or her for Halloween! Make sure to talk about what that person did during their lives that made them memorable.

What are your favorite reality-based costumes for kids? Share your ideas in the comments below.