Halloween and I have a bit of a complex relationship, especially since I became a mom. While trick-or-treating is a fun tradition, finding healthy Halloween treats is tough, much like with Easter.
So, what can a health-conscious mom do? Here are a few options I’ve considered:
When my kids were really little, I simply pretended Halloween didn’t exist. We skipped the trick-or-treating and costumes. Instead, we turned off the lights and went to bed early to avoid the trick-or-treaters. The idea of grumpy toddlers going door-to-door for candy filled with dyes didn’t appeal to me. They didn’t need all those candy bars, candy corn, or other junk foods. These days, with trunk-or-treat events, kids can load up on candy without even walking around the neighborhood.
As my kids grew older and wanted to dress up, avoiding trick-or-treating became harder. I get the fun of wearing costumes and hanging out with friends, but I’m not thrilled about them collecting bags of candy that could hype them up and harm their teeth.
Over the years, I’ve learned a bit about balance and moderation, so we’ve moved away from outright ignoring Halloween (though reluctantly). I’ve found a way to provide Halloween goodies using non-food treat ideas for my kids and the neighborhood.
People have different views on whether receiving a heap of candy in one night is an opportunity for self-control. While I agree that life lessons are important, I’m also a firm believer in giving kids choices within boundaries set by parents. Hence, my love for Montessori methods.
After trick-or-treating, the Candy Fairy (or Switch Witch) stops by our house, and the kids exchange most of their candy for a fun goodie bag. This approach lets me include treats from better sources.
I understand that handing out non-name-brand treats might not make us the most popular house, but with childhood obesity rates rising, wouldn’t less candy be a positive change? According to the CDC, these rates have increased significantly over the last few decades, now at about 20 percent (higher for some ethnicities).
There are good reasons to consider non-candy Halloween treats. While they might not make my house the most popular, there are some fun alternatives that kids definitely enjoy. Plus, families aiming to limit sugar or those sensitive to food dyes will appreciate it!
Here are some top healthy Halloween treat ideas that I keep stocked. Bonus: if you have extras, many will last until next year! Stores like Walmart or local dollar shops can be good places to find cheap Halloween toys, though quality can vary. Below are my favorites:
1. Mini airplanes are an inexpensive candy alternative that kids love.
2. Juice boxes are practical after trick-or-treating to quench thirst.
3. Natural fruit snacks taste better than artificially flavored candies.
4. Bouncy balls are beloved by kids and are cheaper than a large bag of candy.
5. Honey sticks are a sweet treat with beneficial properties when sourced locally.
6. Stamps can be a creative alternative to candy, especially when bought in bulk.
7. Fall-themed bookmarks encourage reading and creativity when paired with crayons.
8. Carabiners are practical, reusable, and plastic-free.
9. Keychain flashlights are fun and keep kids safe during nighttime trick-or-treating.
10. Decorated organic oranges can be a fun DIY treat in trusted neighborhoods.
11. Dye-free, vitamin C lollipops offer a healthier candy option.
12. Fake mustaches add to Halloween costume fun for both kids and adults.
13. Stickers, although sometimes messy, are adored by kids.
14. Bubbles are a timeless activity that entertain kids for hours.
15. Mini notebooks paired with themed pencils can inspire creativity.
16. Light-up rings are a safer, fun alternative to Ring Pops.
17. Bone-shaped pens are both cool and practical.
18. Wikki Sticks allow mess-free creativity.
19. Mini Lego figures can make your house a hit.
20. Although plastic, glow sticks are useful and exciting.
21. Puzzle balls are reusable and encourage problem-solving.
22. Crayon pens with holiday coloring books enhance creativity.
23. Nostalgic slap bracelets might make a comeback as a popular treat.
24. Mini Play-Doh containers offer stretchable fun but be mindful of gluten allergies.
25. Spider rings add spooky flair without the candy.
26. Punch balloons encourage active play.
27. Monster-themed finger puppets enhance creative play for young kids.
28. Classic slinkies are affordable and entertaining.
29. Opt for candy from companies using natural ingredients with minimal additives.
So, what’s your take on Halloween candy? Which healthier Halloween treats would you want your kids to bring home?
