10 inexpensive, Non-Candy trick-or-treat ideas for Halloween
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According to Data from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics, almost 6% of all children in the U.S. had a food allergy in 2021. So it's not surprising that parents become more and more concerned, when sending children with food related allergies out for trick-or-treating on Halloween. Especially older children with allergies who may not be closely monitored by an adult during trick-or-treating anymore are at risk for being accidentally exposed to allergens.
But not only the risk associated with allergies makes many people, especially parents, consider non-food choices for trick-or-treating treats. It is also the concern about sugar intake in children, especially toddlers and young children, that cause people to search for candy alternatives.
Last but not least, having non-food alternatives available gives children, who are not able to consume foods orally the chance to participate in the Halloween tradition.
Considering the above, it is always a good idea to have non-food trick-or-treating options available. I am by no means saying give up the candy. I, myself love some good Halloween candy and so do my children. But having both options available to hand out to trick-or-treaters guarantees that all children can enjoy a treat and feel included.
I have gathered 10 great, inexpensive non-food trick-or-treating choices below. Everything is available on Amazon, just follow the link in the pictures.
1. Glow sticks
You can never go wrong with glow sticks. Children of all ages, even adults love them. They are not just fun they also help kids be more visible in the dark while trick-or-treating.
2. Halloween Bubble wands
Halloween bubbles are another great non-food option for trick-or-treating. They come in different colors and the wands are shaped like Halloween characters.
3. HALLOWEEN PENCILS
These pencils with Halloween motifs are inexpensive, fun and very practical. Kids can’t ever have too many pencils, right?!
4. Halloween stretchy strings
Stretchy Strings will be a hit in your non-candy trick-or-treating bowl. They are great for fidgeting, stress relief and children love the sensory input.
5. Pre-cut Halloween Tattoos
These temporary tattoos are pre-cute, so you can just put them in a bowl on Halloween and you are ready to go. I really like the ones linked in the picture above, since they have really cute, non-spooky motifs, what makes them suitable for smaller children too.
6. Halloween Squishies
Perfect for poking, stretching and squeezing, these squishy toys provide tons of fun for children three years and older. They come in a variety of colors and shapes.
7. slap bracelets
Snap on bracelets are fun, but they are even better when they are decorated with Halloween motifs. They make a great addition to any trick-or-treating event.
8. halloween bath toys
These adorable bath toys are a bit more pricey than other options listed here, but they are the perfect non-candy trick-or-treat item for young toddlers and even babies.
9. Finger Puppets
Another great giveaway toy for babies and toddlers are these adorable Halloween themed finger puppets. They are colorful and the characters are not scary and very kid friendly.
10. Halloween Stamps
These stamps with Halloween characters are small and inexpensive and will bring joy to trick-or-treaters of all ages.
References
1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics: More Than a Quarter of U.S. Adults and Children Have at Least One Allergy (2023): https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2022/20220126.htm
2. Johns Hopkins All Children Hospital: Hidden Sugars: Tips to Making Healthier Choices for You and Your Child: https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Services/Pediatric-and-Adolescent-Medicine/Healthy-Weight-Initiative/Resources-for-All-Ages/Hidden-Sugars
