'Common mistake' parents are warned against making this Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner and while many little ones are buzzing with anticipation, there are a few things parents need to be aware of. October 31 brings a flurry of sugar, costumes, and excitement, leaving mums and dads across the nation wondering how to get their kids to wind down at bedtime.

For many, it's a challenge to help them drift off after such a thrilling day, particularly if they've been feasting on sweets and chocolates. However, overindulgence isn't the only concern for parents, as another factor could potentially disrupt your children's Halloween night.

Dmitry Kandratsyeu, a gaming expert and Head of Product at Solitaires.com, suggests that giving your child a phone or tablet for a brief moment of peace might not always be the best idea, and he has a few reasons why you should monitor their screen time.

The expert emphasises that the type of game played online can have more impact than most parents realise. In fact, selecting the wrong one could make bedtime even more challenging, reports the Mirror.

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."

Quick-tap infinite running games are built to keep players hooked. They function by sparking rapid reward cycles, visual explosions and adrenaline spikes.

All of these signal the brain to remain active, rather than assisting it to wind down, 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."

However, if you find it difficult to keep your youngsters away from games, there could be another approach you can take to tackle the problem.

Dmitry suggests switching fast-paced games for more logic-driven ones like Solitaire, Spite and Malice and FreeCell as solid alternatives.

These all depend on reasoning and rhythm rather than 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 bring additional advantages. Dmitry explains that the predictable framework of these games and rule-based gameplay helps you to feel grounded, something perfect after a night of sensory bombardment.

Arranging cards and following logical patterns can also silence racing thoughts.

You might even discover that transforming it into a family tradition helps. Perhaps opt for a brief game before bedtime rather than solitary screen time, Dmitry recommends.

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 might not be aware, but engaging in games too frequently at night can result in potential problems.

They are frequently highly stimulating, and this can make it challenging for people to relax and drift off to sleep.

Engaging in games before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns because the blue light emitted from screens suppresses the sleep hormone, melatonin.

When youngsters play games, they frequently become extremely excited, especially when games are competitive or quick-paced.

This can make it difficult for the brain to shut down, even once the game has finished.

And, with Halloween already encouraging masses of excitement, it's something definitely worth bearing in mind.