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We’ve arrived at October in the oddest year imaginable. While the holidays will probably look a
little different, there is still bound to be traditions surrounding food and treats, starting with trick-or-treating.
With ghouls, ghosts, and goblins roaming the streets on Halloween, you may not realize that the scariest part of Halloween is actually lurking in your child’s candy bucket! According to the CDC, children under 12 consume nearly 16% of their daily calories in the form of added sugar! Halloween is just one day a year, and a child’s daily eating habits have the greatest effect on their health. Use this Halloween as an opportunity to teach your child how to enjoy treats in moderation as part of a healthy diet!
Small, inexpensive non-food items are a great candy alternative. Toys and trinkets are also a great way to avoid allergens and participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project. Read more about that in a blog written by Dietitian Heather.
- Pencils/pens
- Halloween-themed rings
- Temporary tattoos or stickers
- Vampire fangs
- Glow sticks
- Small, inexpensive toys
Healthier Halloween alternatives can be a wonderful way to reduce sugar intake, just be sure to choose individually wrapped items! A few healthier ideas include:
- Small box of raisins
- Mini water bottle
- Fruit leather
- Graham crackers
- Nuts
- Dried fruit
- Whole grain granola bar
- Trail mix