Five Tips for a Healthier, Safer Halloween

Get out the plastic jack-o-lantern bucket, stock up on fall treats and put on a silly wig. It’s almost Halloween.

Is your yearly Halloween habit buying candy early, eating it and then buying more candy? It may be time to add healthier options to your fall holiday menu. And if you’re going door-to-door with a child, safety should always be top-of-mind.

Whatever your Halloween traditions are, chances are good they rely heavily on candy and costumes. Here are five tips to keep your celebrations healthier and safe with more treats than tricks.

Tip 1: Eat First

Popcorn balls, candy and caramel apples may be delicious, but they don’t provide a balanced meal. Plan ahead and eat a healthy meal before trick-or-treating or heading out to a party.

It’s easier to monitor your choices if you’re not hungry when you make them. And children won’t be as tempted to snack if their bellies aren’t empty when the candy haul continues to grow.

Tip 2: Contain the Collection

Don’t use a pillowcase or large container to hold the candy your child collects. A smaller container doesn’t hold as much candy, so it limits the haul you take home.

Encourage your child to take only one piece of candy from each house you visit to increase the number of homes you can go to before the container becomes full. You'll get less sugar and more exercise at the same time.

Don’t forget to inspect every treat you’ve collected. Don’t eat anything that wasn’t commercially packaged, and check for signs of tampering. If your child has a food allergy, read the labels and avoid choking hazards such as gum, hard candy or tiny toys.

Tip 3: Choose Candy Alternatives

No child wants to get a toothbrush instead of candy. But there are lots of non-edible items that many children would welcome in their treat bags. Glow sticks, slime and fake teeth are excellent alternatives to another candy bar.

Temporary tattoos, bubble makers or small crayon sets provide a fun treat without a sugar rush. Just be sure not to give any small items that could be a choking hazard.

Tip 4: Avoid Accidents

Keep safety at the top of your priority list while you celebrate. Look for “flame-resistant” costumes and use flame-resistant fabrics if you make your costume. Wear brightly colored costumes or incorporate strips of reflective tape into your look to increase your visibility to others.

Makeup or a hat won't block your vision like a mask does. Test your makeup beforehand to rule out signs of allergies such as swelling, irritation or rash. Avoid wearing decorative contacts unless you see an eye care professional for instructions and proper fitting.

Tip 5: Up Your Activity

Encourage physical activity in your festivities by incorporating them into your plans. Walk instead of driving when trick-or-treating. Have a dance contest to get everyone up and moving. Hold a pumpkin toss or play a form of tag. Get creative, and no one will even notice their Halloween is healthier.

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