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 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 prepare… and make the night a fun one 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, Nextdoor’s Treat Map is also making it easier for families to see what houses have non-food options. The annual Halloween Treat Map on Nextdoor allows neighbors to mark their homes with a candy corn icon if they plan to pass out candy, or a haunted house icon if they plan to go all out! This year, the app added a new teal pumpkin icon (teal is the campaign color). It gives members the opportunity to let neighbors know that they are passing out non-food treats on Halloween.
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)