12 Tips to Have a Safe Halloween

Halloween is a time of excitement and adventure for many kids, filled with the thrill of dressing up, going trick-or-treating, and indulging in sweet treats. However, for children with allergies, this festive season can be a bit more challenging.  

The abundance of candies and snacks, often containing common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten, can make navigating Halloween tricky and, at times, stressful for both kids and their parents. Yet, every child deserves to enjoy the magic of Halloween without worrying about what they can and cannot eat. 

It is crucial to create an inclusive environment where children with allergies can participate in the fun and feel safe. That is why we have compiled a list of 12 essential tips to help you ensure your child has a safe and enjoyable Halloween.  

Whether you are a parent preparing for trick-or-treating or someone handing out candy, these tips will guide you in making this Halloween a safe, inclusive, and joyous occasion for everyone. 

FAACT's Halloween Safety Tips 

Set the stage for a fun and safe Halloween with these allergy-aware safety tips: 

1. Bring Epinephrine:  

We recommend that you always carry two epinephrine devices while trick-or-treating, attending parties, visiting the mall, or anywhere else Halloween festivities might take place.  

Allergic reactions can occur unexpectedly, and having immediate access to epinephrine can be lifesaving. Ensure all caregivers, friends, and family members know how to use it in case of an emergency. 

2. NO Snacking:  

Establish a family rule that your child must wait until they get home before diving into their treats. This not only allows you to check each item for allergens but also reduces the risk of accidental exposure.  

Make it fun by offering an incentive, like swapping unsafe candy for allergen-free treats, toys, or even a small amount of money. This way, they still get to enjoy the fun of collecting candy without the worry. 

3. Dress Up:  

Think creatively about your child’s costume to incorporate safety measures. For example, can they wear gloves to avoid direct contact with allergens? Consider accessorizing with teal buttons, stickers, or other awareness items that indicate a food allergy, signaling to other parents and trick-or-treaters to be mindful of what they offer. 

4. Speak Up:  

Empower your child to advocate for themselves by practicing how to politely refuse unsafe treats. Role-playing can make this more engaging and prepare them for real-life scenarios.  

Teach them to confidently say, “No, thank you. I have a food allergy,” when offered something they cannot eat. This can also help them feel more in control and less anxious about managing their allergies. 

5. Discuss Candy to Avoid:  

Visual recognition is key when it comes to avoiding allergens. It is important not just to tell your child which candies to avoid (like those with peanuts) but also to show them what the wrappers look like.  

Teach them to scan candy bowls carefully, recognizing both safe and unsafe options, and even avoid grabbing treats if they are too close to potential allergens. 

6. Look Around:  

Be vigilant about the environment. Watch for what other kids are eating nearby and check for any candy or wrappers that may be on the ground. This can help avoid accidental contact with allergens and keep your child safe from unintended exposure. 

7. Read ALL Labels:  

Candy packaging can be deceiving, especially with mini-sized or holiday-themed versions that might be manufactured differently. Ingredients and manufacturing processes can change, so it is important to read labels every time. Never assume an item is safe just because it was last year and consider researching ingredient lists online if you are unsure. You may also want to call the manufacturer since seasonal items may be manufactured in different facilities. 

8. Hand Out Non-Food Treats:  

To ensure every child enjoys the festivities, consider handing out non-food items such as Halloween-themed pencils, glow necklaces, rings, or temporary tattoos. These alternatives provide a fun option for kids with allergies and avoid the risk of exposure. Avoid items like Play-Doh, which may contain potential allergens. 

9. Set Up Safe Stops:  

Coordinate with a few trusted neighbors to place small bags of safe candy at their houses. This gives your child the chance to safely trick-or-treat and enjoy Halloween like everyone else. It is also a great opportunity to educate your neighbors about food allergies and how they can help create a safer environment for all kids. 

10. BYO Treats:  

When attending Halloween parties hosted by friends or neighbors, bring a supply of allergen-free treats that everyone can enjoy. This not only ensures your child has safe options but also helps them feel included and avoids the temptation of potentially unsafe treats. Make sure to keep these treats separate from other foods to prevent cross-contact. 

11. Sing About It:  

Make learning about allergy safety fun by introducing catchy songs like Kyle Dine's "Food Allergy Halloween Safety." Music can be an effective way to teach children important safety rules while keeping the mood light and enjoyable. 

12. Read About It:  

Encourage reading about allergies through fun, relatable stories. Books like "Trade-or-Treat Halloween" by The No Biggie Bunch tell tales of kids swapping candy that contains their allergens, providing both entertainment and valuable lessons on managing allergies in social settings. 

Ensure Halloween is Safe and Joyful with FAACT 

Navigating Halloween with food allergies with the right precautions will make the day a fun and memorable experience for every child.  

From carrying epinephrine and reading labels carefully to choosing non-food treats and teaching kids to advocate for themselves, these 12 tips offer practical ways to keep Halloween both safe and inclusive.  

By being prepared and mindful, you can help your child enjoy the magic of Halloween while staying safe from allergens. For more helpful tips, fun activities like crossword puzzles and word searches, and additional resources to make this Halloween both safe and exciting, visit FAACT’s Halloween section on our website here. 

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