Halloween can be a fun holiday for both children and adults. But, do you feel like you are compromising your healthy eating values by handing out sugar-laden candy to the neighborhood children? Here are some options if you still want to participate in the trick-or-treating tradition without contributing to the sugar-binge.
One of the best things you can do is not give out food at all. Purchase small toys and trinkets at dollar stores or discount stores. Most kids, especially the younger ones, will find the toys just as much a treat as the candy. And, they will have the toy to use long after the candy is eaten (or thrown away). Look for items that come in packages of five to ten for a dollar, and you won’t spend much more than you would on candy. If you plan ahead, you can often find discounted Halloween themed toys after Halloween. And, unlike candy, you can pack away any extra toys and use them the next year. Another advantage to this option is that there are no worries about allergies. But, do be cautious with giving very small children small toys.
Here are some ideas for non-food items to give away at Halloween.
Pencils. Pencils are a great option. Most school-aged children love new pencils, and you can often find a 10-pack of Halloween pencils for a dollar.
Spider rings. You can find spider rings or other Halloween rings in many different colors and styles. They are generally pretty cheap, and what kid doesn’t love to wear a spooky spider ring at Halloween.
Temporary Tatoos. Kids love temporary tatoos. You can find them in all kinds of styles, from sweet to scary, and they usually wash off in a day or two.
Erasers. Dollar stores and discount stores often have fun, Halloween-shaped erasers for sale in packages of six to ten.
Straws. Silly, Halloween-themed straws are very popular. Kids also like the reuseable twisty straws that usually come in packages of five or six.
Stickers. Discount stores usually have a large choice of stickers with or without Halloween themes. Stickers are a good option if you have a lot of younger trick-or-treaters who should not have small pieces.
Glow Bracelets. Glow bracelets, glow sticks or glow necklaces are popular with kids and usually come in packages of five or six. Another advantage to handing out glow sticks is that they help with Halloween safety by making the children more visible during trick-or-treating.
If you aren’t ready to give up handing out food-type treats at Halloween, try handing out dried fruit. You can usually find small boxes of raisins or small packages of dried cranberries that would be the perfect size for handing out to trick-or-treaters. Check the dried fruit section in your grocery store. Even if the cranberries have added sugar, the kids are getting some fruit and less sugar than a candy bar. Another option is small packages of sugar-free gum. Gum is still a treat for many kids. Sugar-free options won’t harm their teeth. And, they probably won’t even know you are giving them a healthier Halloween treat.
With a little bit of planning, you can promote a fun and healthy Halloween.
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