In Search of a Good Fright: Generations of Kids Look Forward to First Trip to America Haunts' Attractions

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Oct 06, 2015, 10:00 ET

DETROIT, Oct. 6, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Today America Haunts, an association of more than 30 elite haunted attractions with locations in 20 markets across the United States, released suggestions for parents considering taking their older children to haunted houses.

Going to a haunted house is a highly anticipated rite of passage for tweens and teens. They eagerly await the day when they can skip the neighborhood haunted "funhouse" and go to the REAL haunted house. But how old is old enough for a haunt designed to frighten? And how can parents know what's best for their kids?

"Generations of kids look forward to finally being able to visit one of our haunts," said Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, vice president of America Haunts. The attractions feature Hollywood-quality set designs, animatronics and sound systems, costuming and makeup, members pride themselves on setting the industry standard in horror entertainment.

"These are long-awaited destination that young children look forward to finally being able to attend."

She offers these tips to help parents determine when their children are ready to visit a professionally created haunted attraction.

Test Their Tolerance

If your tweens love mild to moderately scary movies and start scouting for the scariest yards as soon as the leaves start turning, they might be ready for a more elite haunted house.

Understand Their Brains

Adults and teens can understand the difference between fantasy and reality and know they are actually safe during the entire experience. Older tweens and teens are able to sort out fantasy from reality in a haunted attraction.

Do Your Homework

Ask friends who have been through the haunt you'd like to visit for their opinions, look on local parent message boards, and search online reviews. Finally, visit the attraction's website or call ahead for any age restrictions.

Arnett-Bequeaith continued, "We look forward to entertaining your teens when they are ready. Until then, some of our haunts offer lights-on days or offer family days for those with younger children. "

Attending a haunted house as a family is a great way to celebrate the Halloween season, and finally getting to go to the scariest haunt in town is an exciting rite of passage for tweens and teens. Know your teen's tolerance, and you can have a day that's frighteningly fun for all.

With more than 30 haunted houses and attractions across the country, America Haunts delivers fear-based entertainment to more than a million thrill seekers each season. America Haunts has been featured on the Travel Channel and its members recognized by The Guinness Book of World Records on multiple occasions. The organization is committed to providing technical excellence, stunning set design, Hollywood-quality make-up, costumes and actors. Members enjoy nothing more than delivering, a good old-fashioned scare. Visit AmericaHaunts.com.

SOURCE America Haunts