[SoDu How-To] Non-Food Alternatives for Halloween Treats

Do you find reporting like this valuable? Support Southpoint Access as a subscriber or advertising sponsor and make it possible to keep this information flowing to readers in our community!

Halloween is just around the corner, and for many families, it’s an exciting time filled with costumes, decorations, and—of course—treats. But while candy is often the star of the show, it’s important to consider how non-food treats can enhance the Halloween experience for children in our community. At Southpoint Access, we know many local parents are seeking alternatives to the candy overload, especially when allergies, health concerns, and inclusivity come into play.

Here’s why non-food treats are a great idea this Halloween:

Allergy and Health Considerations

Many children have food allergies or dietary restrictions that make traditional candy off-limits. For kids with peanut, dairy, or gluten allergies, Halloween can feel like a minefield. Non-food treats ensure that every child, regardless of their dietary needs, can participate fully in the fun. The Teal Pumpkin Project, which encourages households to provide non-food options for trick-or-treaters with food allergies, has gained popularity for this very reason. By offering non-food treats, you’re helping to create an inclusive experience for all kids.

Reducing Sugar Overload

Let’s be honest—Halloween is synonymous with sugar overload. While it’s fun for kids to indulge in candy, too much can lead to health concerns and behavior issues. Offering non-food treats gives parents a break from monitoring their kids’ sugar intake while still keeping the spirit of Halloween alive.

Longer-Lasting Fun

Candy is fleeting—it’s consumed in minutes and often forgotten. On the other hand, non-food treats, like toys, stickers, or crafts, offer longer-lasting entertainment. These items give children something tangible they can play with or use beyond Halloween night, adding a different dimension of fun to their treat haul.

Supporting Creativity and Play

Non-food treats encourage kids to use their imaginations. Items like stickers, finger puppets, or mini puzzles engage children in a way that candy can’t. These treats foster creative play and can be enjoyed repeatedly, unlike a candy bar that disappears after a few bites.

Making Your Home Stand Out

If you want your house to be memorable for trick-or-treaters, non-food treats could be the way to go. In a sea of candy, handing out a fun toy or glow stick might make your home the talk of the neighborhood. Kids love variety, and they’ll remember the unique experience you provided.

To help you get started, here’s a list of non-food treats that could be a hit:

• Glow-in-the-dark bracelets or necklaces
• Stickers or temporary tattoos
• Mini puzzles or brain teasers
• Halloween-themed pencils or erasers
• Mini play-dough or slime
• Mini notebooks or coloring books
• Bubbles
• Halloween-themed rubber stamps
• Finger puppets
• Mini card games or small toys

This Halloween, consider adding some non-food treats to your lineup. Not only will you brighten the night for children with allergies or dietary restrictions, but you’ll also provide a fun, memorable, and healthy alternative to candy. Plus, you’ll help parents across South Durham breathe a little easier knowing their kids have safer and more diverse options to enjoy!