With Halloween just over a week away, the kids are undoubtedly excited about all the Halloween treats to come! But, according to Food Allergy Research & Education, one in 13 children has a food allergy. Nuts, eggs, milk wheat and soy are the most common allergens and are in many Halloween treats. So, it can be a challenge for little trick or treaters with who won’t be able to eat or even touch most of the Halloween loot. But, there are things you can do ahead of time to time to prepare… and make the night a fun for your child and for others!
The Teal Pumpkin Project
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a worldwide movement to make the holiday safer for all kids. Putting a teal pumpkin on your doorstep means you have non-food treats available. You can also print a poster here! You can then add your home to the Teal Pumpkin Project map. Great options for non-food treats include bubbles, stickers, pencils, glow sticks, temporary tattoos, noise makers & Halloween spider rings.
Nextdoor’s Treat Map
This year, The Teal Pumpkin Project Map is also making it easier for families to see what houses have non-food options. The annual Halloween Treat Map allows you to add your home if you plan on passing out non-food treats on Halloween. You can also print one of the signs, here to indicate you have non-food treats available!
Candy Swap
If kids come home with candy they’re allergic to, many families opt for a candy swap once they finish trick or treating. Parents can offer to trade any unsafe items for safe treats or a prize, like a book or toy and siblings can trade for candy each of them can eat. Just be sure a parent checks all labels first!
Host a Party!
Another option is to skip trick or treating all together and host a party instead! You can serve allergy safe treats but stay in the Halloween spirit with spooky decorations, the kids can wear their costumes, do crafts and dance.
Graphics c/o The Teal Pumpkin Project