Your kids may roll their eyes when you explain that you want to hand out less sugary sweets this Halloween, but it’s always a good idea to have a wide variety handy for kids when they come around the block. Many kids may have allergies to specific foods, and having a few options can make it a little easier for you and more fun for them! Plus, if you are handing out more health-conscious snacks as well, this can help take away some of those allergies that kids have, so there’s no guessing games.
Granola Bars
One snack or treat that is a little healthier than traditional candy is granola bars. These bars will at least contain some grains, and other nutrients rather than just sugar and chocolate. Granola bars can still contain a lot of sugar, though, so be sure to read the package and pick ones that are healthier than their counterparts. Some of the bars may contain nuts, which can be an allergy for some children, so try to lean toward some bars that have more fruit in them than chocolate or peanut butter.
Fruits
You may get some flack from your children on this one, but handing out fruit is a great way to bypass many allergies or food preferences, like gluten free or vegan. If the neighbors’ kids give you a sideways glance when placing an apple in their bag, you can always opt in for a variety of fruit snacks too. There are the traditional fruit-shaped snacks, plus there are flat, fruit infused strips and even ropes that are mostly all natural and very limited on ingredients. Plus, they will appeal to kids more than just a piece of fruit, even though it’s almost nearly the same thing!
Less Traditional Snacks
Unfortunately, many treats that can be healthier for you are also homemade, but homemade snacks and treats are generally still frowned upon unless at a specific party. For Trick O’ Treaters, they don’t know what ingredients are in the snacks and whether they can eat them safely, so anything homemade most often winds up in the trash. But traditional snacks can still be handed out, just not homemade. Popcorn balls are a traditional Halloween treat, and to try to offer something similar, you can get individual snack size portions of popcorn at the store. These are also great for allergies and diets since they are simple but tasty!
Katie Kyzivat