BRINGING THE KIDS TO MARDI GRAS

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Don’t leave children unattended, and don’t allow them to chase after parade floats for throws. Have a designated meeting place — such as a restaurant or easily remembered building or landmark — in case anyone in your group gets separated. Instruct children to seek out a uniformed fire fighter or police officer if they do become lost or separated.

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Younger children should have a note or card with your name and contact info in a secure pocket or pinned to their clothing. If police cannot find the parents of a missing child, the child will be taken to the police station located on 54th and Broadway. The non emergency number to police dispatch is 409-765-3702 for information or to report a missing child.

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Although Mardi Gras parades are generally family friendly, the atmosphere can get somewhat frenzied and indeed, certain attendees (usually teenagers or young adults) may become rowdy and less than respectful of other people's space. So if you're bringing young children, be mindful of your surroundings and the company you keep. When staking out a viewing location, look for a "family zone" inhabited by other parents with young children.

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During a parade, parents should be on the alert and ready to deflect beads and other items tossed from floats in the direction of children. Riders can sometimes be errant or overly aggressive in their throwing, and having a set of big beads land smack on your child’s noggin can put a serious damper on the fun.

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Children are notorious for scrambling in the dirt for throws, then grabbing snacks with dirty hands. Bring antibacterial wipes and/or hand sanitizer. Also, since Mardi Gras parades are cacophonous affairs, consider packing ear plugs. And blankets and warm clothing (gloves or mittens, hooded jackets or sweatshirts, warm hats) are often a good idea, especially for nighttime parades.