The U.S. Census Bureau says 36 million kids ages 5 to 13 go trick-or-treating each year.

NPR: One Mom's Stint as the Healthy Halloween Grinch

Now, kids go trick-or-treating during the daytime and receive healthy treats.

FORBES: How Adults Have Hijacked Halloween From Kids

My kids will be joining millions of their candy-seeking compatriots across the nation in begging for candy from strangers Oct. 31, but only after they've had enough of Mama's "You Must Eat This If You Want To Go Trick-or-Treating" Squash Soup.

NPR: One Mom's Stint as the Healthy Halloween Grinch

But if a family is concerned, when you're actually trick-or-treating, if you watch your child go to someone's door, ring the bell, and the other family comes to the door and hands them candy, it's one way of knowing it's a safe and comfortable gift of the candy.

CNN: Kate Kelly: Halloween safety

So, if a parent is really uncomfortable with trick-or-treating, then a party is the way to go.

CNN: Kate Kelly: Halloween safety