All of us with children know that the anticipation begins to build six weeks prior to the “big night.” What will I be? What will we do? Who will I be with? The planning starts early for the children in my circle, for they want to ensure that Halloween night is a big celebration. 
And of course the biggest prize….all that candy! Halloween can be a difficult holiday to manuever for those of us that are concious about food choices, nutrition and knowing where our food comes from. I admit I love my sweets too, and my daughter and I enjoy a “treat” every once in awhile, but I never purchase our treats at the conventional corner market. We buy vegan organic cookies, or organic dark chocolat etc. So, if I don’t allow my child to consume the traditional “junk” treats throughout the year, why is it okay on this one special night? Well, because it really is just one special night. But, there are some “tricks” that parents can use to soften the heartache that comes from watching your child consume all that refined sugar, artifical flavorings, and funky coloring.
- When my child was younger I could get away with her Halloween candy “disappearing” after a few days, and she would never ask about it. Now that she’s nearing 10 that’s just not gonna fly. However, for those of you with younger kids, it’s okay for the candy to slowly “go away.”
- A good friend of mine always allows her children to trick-or-treat, but instead of eating their candy, the children are allowed to barter with it. This creative mama has her children “trade in” their Halloween candy for treats at the local natural foods store (trade with their mother, not the store). The Children still get fun stuff, just treats that aren’t filled with all the nasties mentioned earlier.
- It’s a good idea to plan a gathering with friends for Halloween night, so it’s not ALL about the candy. If there are other fun activities to enjoy for the night, the children might not be quite so obsessed with the candy consumption.
- Have children trick-or-treat with a small size bag. This will eliminate the need to fill a bigger pumkin pail, and lessen the amount of total candy won. When the bag is full, it’s time to head home!
Environmental Communications 