Halloween should be about excitement and candy—not arguments over who buys the costume. If you’re co-parenting, here’s a clear, child-first way to handle it.
The simple rule
Courts in Ontario take a practical approach: the parent who has the child for Halloween covers the costume.
It’s predictable, easy to apply, and avoids last-minute standoffs.
Why this works
- It ties the cost to the parent organizing the night’s plans.
- It prevents double-buying and confusion.
Keep it collaborative
Different views on themes or appropriateness? Agree early on a few basics so your child isn’t stuck between two visions. A short, shared “costume policy” goes a long way.
One-liner for your plan or email:
“The parent with parenting time on October 31 will choose and purchase the Halloween costume, after consulting the other parent on theme and appropriateness. If trick-or-treating is split, the parent attending trick-or-treating pays.”
If you want to share costs
- Set a budget cap (e.g., “Up to $60 unless we both approve more”).
- Use receipts + quick reimbursement timelines.
- Let the costume travel with the child, regardless of who paid.
Gentle etiquette that prevents drama
- Decide early. Swap ideas by mid-October.
- Keep it age-appropriate and safe. Mind school rules and cultural sensitivity.
- Have a backup. Shipping delays happen; a simple DIY option helps.
- Share photos. Send a couple the same night to keep everyone included.
When there’s a snag
- Check your agreement—there may already be a clause.
- Suggest the “parent-on-the-day pays” default.
- Offer a budget cap to close the loop.
- Keep messages short, neutral, and written.
- Try mediation before turning a small expense into a big conflict.
