Finding Family Time in the Halloween Hustle

October seems to move at double speed, doesn’t it? The calendar fills up with school parties, pumpkin patches, fall festivals, and trunk-or-treat events—each one a memory in the making, but together they can leave families feeling like they’re running on candy corn and caffeine. Before we know it, the big night arrives, and we’re racing from house to house, hoping the kids’ costumes survive one more outing and the sugar rush doesn’t hit before bedtime.

But amid all that excitement, it’s easy to lose sight of the quiet, meaningful moments that truly make the season special. The laughter that bubbles up when you read a funny story together. The way a child’s imagination lights up when they picture the characters in their favorite book. Those are the moments that stick long after the pumpkins are gone and the candy wrappers are swept away.

That’s why it’s so important to carve out (pumpkin pun intended!) time for family connection during these busy weeks. Even ten or fifteen minutes each night can make a difference. Gather everyone in their pajamas, dim the lights, and read together—maybe something silly and spooky, maybe something comforting and familiar. Reading with your kids builds their vocabulary and imagination, but even more importantly, it creates a safe, cozy space to unwind and be together.

If your evenings are too packed, try weaving reading into other parts of your day. Keep a favorite storybook in the car to read while waiting for siblings at practice. Bring a book to the park or the pumpkin patch for a little “quiet time” between the festivities. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence.

As the countdown to Halloween continues, remember: the magic of the season isn’t found in how many events you attend, but in the moments you share as a family. Those small, steady habits—like reading together—help kids feel grounded even when life gets busy.

So, light a candle, grab a blanket, and take a few minutes to slow down. Let your family’s imagination wander somewhere warm and bright before the next big adventure begins.

And if you’re looking for a gentle story to share this season, Fiona The Lost Sheep is a wonderful reminder of love, kindness, and finding your way home—perfect for ending a busy autumn day with a smile.