Halloween happens every year, whether us green mamas like it or not. If your little ones are still babies, it’s pretty easy to ignore.
But as they grow, they’ll want to join in the fun. It’s actually an opportunity to teach them about moderation and “healthier” options, which we list below. That way, kids can still have treats and we can set an example by choosing organic, fair-trade and/or less sugar. This at least limits the amount of bad stuff in these treats.
Healthy Halloween treats if you get TONS of trick-or-treaters
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If you’re expecting a large crowd of kids at your door this Halloween, save by buying in bulk. These YumEarth organic lollipops are available by the pound and won’t break the bank.
YumEarth is the #1 organic candy brand in the U.S. These lollipops are vegan, certified organic and free of gluten, peanuts, dairy, eggs, artificial colors, artificial flavors and high fructose corn syrup.
OR, how about some money? Throw a quarter into their candy pile. It’s a small contributor to my favorite finance model of “save some, spend some, give some.” If you get 100 kids at your door it’s $25 — not too bad. Maybe give an extra buck to most creative costume?
Healthy Halloween treats for a smaller crowd
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If you’re expecting under 50 costumed-kids at your door, Annie’s organic vegan fruit snacks are a great option.
They’re made with real fruit & vegetable juices, certified organic, vegan and free of gluten, artificial flavors, synthetic colors or preservatives and high fructose corn syrup.
Want to keep costs down even more? Choose the YumEarth organic lollipops in a smaller size here.
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Don’t follow the norm and buy cheap chocolate. “Cheap chocolate is made from beans picked by poor kids in dangerous conditions.” (Read more about this here.)
Yes fair-trade is more $$$. I can only hope someday we live in a world where that’s not the case.
What about healthy homemade treats?
Well, they’re great for Halloween parties, but many parents don’t allow their children to consume “homemade” treats they receive while trick or treating (I agree).
But if you’re having a party? Check out these great healthy Halloween recipes here.
Why not choose non-candy items to hand out?
I’ve never been a fan: I choose consumable options whenever possible. Glow sticks, little plastic bubbles, stickers and even pencils often just get added to the junk pile and eventually the landfill.
That said, kids often like new and different things. So why not pass on some items? This takes some planning and storage throughout the year. But consider all the things your kids get from party favors, school, treasure chests and any other event. The stuff adds up for sure. Here’s a few things I know my kids will never miss:
Other healthy money-saving tips for Halloween:
- If you can’t sew (or don’t have the time), purchase your kids’ Halloween costumes at your local consignment or thrift store.
- Hand out candy over non-candy treats for a great teaching lesson for your kids: natural, organic treats are o.k. and should be enjoyed on special occasions.
- Swap out some of your own kids’ candy with an educational toy or project to do.
- Limit the amount they have on a daily basis. The sugar content adds up quickly.
- No matter what it is: throwing away is wasteful. Donate a portion of your collected candy to the troops — because anyone who’s serving our country (thanks by the way) will indulge responsibly. Learn how to donate to the Operation Gratitude candy give-back here.
Wishing you a safe and fun Halloween.
About the Author
Jen Brady — Chief Green Mama
Mom of two. Wife of one. Holistic nutritional consultant. Amateur biohacker. Guide of the Green Yourself Pregnancy Challenge. Author of the Green Your Baby Registry Guide.
I'm wild about pregnancy and babies (in a sane way) and I need to steer you away from harsh chemicals and hormone disruptors. Stick with me to keep it lean and green.
