Halloween is a festive day for children and adults alike. However, the abundance of treats offered on and around Halloween doesn’t do much to keep kids healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity in the United States was 20.7% among children between the ages of six and 11, and 22.2% among 12- to 19-year-olds from 2017 to 2020. To do your part to keep kids on a healthy track this Halloween, consider offering healthier options to trick-or-treaters.
Here are some ideas.
- Fruit cups with fruit juice rather than light or heavy syrups
- Packaged sliced apples
- Bags of air-popped popcorn (light or free of butter)
- Bags of baked chips or pretzels
- Whole grain granola bars or trail mixes
- Boxes of raisins or dried cranberries
- Snack packs featuring crackers or sliced vegetables and dips, like hummus
Non-food giveaways are great, too. Stores or online retailers that sell party favors or trinkets, or stores with wholesale or bulk options, often provide the best bang for your buck.
- Stickers
- Pencils (including scented varieties)
- Marker sets
- Bouncy balls
- Fidget toys
- Spooky accessories, like vampire teeth or spider rings
- Silly string cans
- Modeling clay, play doughs, or kinetic sands
Halloween doesn’t require extra sugar and unhealthy options. While those treats can be eaten in moderation, trick-or-treaters can enjoy a variety of options that are healthier for everyone.
