Halloween is such an exciting time for kids. They get to dress as their favorite character, participate in school parties and run from house to house to get tasty treats! For some children, however, the tradition of trick or treat can be potentially life threatening.
Did you know that an estimated 15 million Americans have food allergies? This number includes children, affecting 1 in every 13 kids. While allergies range in severity, it’s important to show the kids that are affected that we care about their health and well-being.
By placing a teal pumpkin at your front door, you are making everyone aware that you have the option of non-food treats available. If you aren’t able to paint a pumpkin to put on display, you can visit the Food and Allergy Research & Education’s Teal Pumpkin Project page for a sign to print and hang on your door.
Choosing a food item that is completely safe can be tricky due to so many treats being packaged in facilities that contain allergens. Instead of risking cross contamination, it is best to have non-food treats available to help put parents at ease while making the kids afflicted with allergies feel included in a fun night of trick or treating.
Here are some great non-food items that would be great to hand out:
- Halloween pencils
- Halloween erasers
- Temporary tattoos
- Stickers
- Glow sticks
- Spider rings
- Mini note pads
- Vampire teeth
- Bouncy balls
- Whistles
- Bubbles
In addition to these items, you can still have a separate bowl of candy for kids without allergies to choose from. Having both options is sure to please all of the kids that come to your door!
By participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, you are showing kids that you care about their safety this Halloween! What will you be handing out to the ghouls and goblins in your neighborhood?
