When most people think of Halloween and trick- or-treating, they think of candy. However, many households are swopping out sugary treats for fun alternative goodies. Halloween can also be difficult time for children with food allergies or sensitivities. Here is a list of low-cost and safe alternatives to candy that all kids can enjoy.
Pencils
Pencils may not seem like an exciting option, but kids use them on a daily basis in school and at home. You can purchase packs of Halloween-themed pencils and pass them out to the kids who come to your door.
Erasers
Themed erasers can be a lot of fun for kids and they are relatively inexpensive. Not only can erasers be used to fix mistakes, they add a touch of fun to school assignments. Pass these out in combination with pencils for an extra special and functional treat.
Stickers
Another affordable candy alternative is stickers. Kids can use stickers to decorate their notebooks, folders, lockers, the possibilities are endless. You can purchase stickers inexpensively online or at your local dollar store.
Glow Sticks
What kid doesn’t like glow sticks? The fun part of these low-cost products is you can find them in an array of fun colors and styles. Whether you choose to purchase glow-in-the-dark necklaces, glow sticks that need to be carried or something more fun like glow stick glasses, your house is sure to be a hit. With many neighborhoods offering trick-or-treating after dark, these items can help keep the area kids safe as well.
Plastic Jewelry
Boys and girls alike enjoy dressing up for Halloween; after all this is what Halloween is all about for many kids. You can help them stay in the festive spirit by buying packages of plastic jewelry, including rings, necklaces and more. Kids will love wearing spooky Halloween jewelry and the parents will appreciate them receiving something other than candy.
Straws
If you ask most kids, they love sipping their favorite drinks through a straw. Purchase inexpensive BPA free straws online in bulk. Hand out fun twisty straws in Halloween colors and designs. Kids will love using their straws in the coming months as they sip on their favorite drinks. It might even get kids to drink their milk (even though they might blow bubbles in their cup.)
Bubbles
Buying small bottles of bubbles is relatively inexpensive. Most kids love blowing bubbles and chasing them until they pop. It’s likely you’ll see them running up and down the street blowing bubbles for days after Halloween, helping to extend the holiday fun.
Noisemakers
If you’re looking for something other than candy to pass out, consider purchasing Halloween themed noisemakers in bulk. You are sure to be a big hit with the area kids when they find out what you’re handing out this Halloween.
Temporary Tattoos
Kids may be too young for the real tattoos, but they love applying and wearing temporary tattoos. Temporary tattoos come in a vast array of designs, sure to please the kids when you pass them out. They will have fun showcasing their tattoos for a few days, rather than eating through their candy treats at a rapid rate.
Modeling Clay
Most kids love to playing with modeling clay. This is an excellent low-cost alternative to sugary treats and you can often find clay in fun Halloween colors, such as orange, purple and even black. If you pass modeling clay out to kids, you will be giving them hours of enjoyment. As long as they close the container up tight, they will be able to use the clay for a long time to come. However, some brands of modeling clay contain wheat, if you are trying to buy allergy friendly products be sure to choose clay that is gluten free.
Comic Books
During the month of October, comic shops across the country will be selling mini-comic bundles, containing 25 mini titles for only $4.99. Parents love comics because they encourage reading and help develop the imagination. These mini-comics are a great alternative to candy to hand out to trick-or-treaters, especially the ones dressed up in superhero costumes!
Not everyone wants to pass out candy on Halloween, but most people don’t have a large budget to work with. If you’re looking for low-cost and safe alternatives that will still be a hit with the kids, you can’t go wrong with these options.
