

When people have moved to leaving candy out, perhaps kids thought that not having them out means you’re not participating. Also, when many houses have left them out, for efficiency, it makes sense to only go to those houses.
I’m glad to hear that the sign helped. Shows that some kids aren’t just about getting as much candy as possible but also having a bit of fun.
While this is true, I would also add that it’s ok and valid to be sad and unhappy. There is no obligation to put on a smile. You can be happy and not smiling, or you can be unhappy and not smiling, just be you.