Keeping kids safe this season is every parent's concern. Worry over tainted candy is a problem that reoccurs every Halloween not to mention all the extra sugar. Here are some great alternatives to give out this Halloween that keep the parent's mind at ease and the trick-or-treaters safe.
Pencils or Erasers
Believe it or not, a friend of mine (who used to be a grade school teacher) decided to offer either treats or Halloween themed pencils one year to her trick-or-treaters. Guess which was the winner? Pencils!
The kids were so surprised with these Halloween unusual treats. The parents were equally pleased and appreciative of such a unique idea for Halloween treats.
This same idea can be done with erasers. Buy some in neat shapes, hot colors and the like and you have another safe alternative to traditional Halloween treats. Just be sure to select ones that cannot be mistaken for candy and don't hand them out to very small children.
Temporary Tattoos or Stickers
Children love cute little Halloween tattoos and stickers. They are available in ten-packs for about $1.50 per pack. Just separate the packs and hand them individually or in pairs. Little may girls like princesses, witches, butterflies, angels or lady bugs. The boys may like monsters, superheroes, pirates, or perhaps popular cartoon characters.
This unique Halloween treats idea is a hit with both the kids and the parents!
Game Tokens
This idea is for the older trick-or-treaters who like to play games using tokens. If it is affordable, stop by a popular kids gathering place that features games played using tokens. Purchase some to hand out to your trick-or-treaters as Halloween treats (just one or two at a time is plenty).
These Halloween treats not only are a healthy alternative but keep the kids busy for awhile. A sure winner with their parents!
Party Favors
Halloween party favors can be purchased by the bag and are a great alternative to candy. Things like plastic spiders, bats, ghosts and glow sticks can be used. Hunt for bargains whenever you go shopping. Even grocery stores may have some great choices. Halloween treats can come in all shapes and sizes so always be on the look out for good deals.
Clearance Sales
Oftentimes I run across real bargains for Halloween treat ideas at store clearance sales. Look for things like small plastic toys sold by the bag, costume jewelry, little sunglasses, crayons and even story or coloring books. I've seen them all priced way below retail and they make great Halloween treats that both parents and kids will like.
Of course the age of your trick-or-treaters is a factor in what is appropriate for their Halloween treats. It is best to have a variety of items available to accommodate all the different ages of your visitors. Also, avoid any items that appear to be candy or something else edible as you don't want to create a choking hazard, especially in smaller children.