With Halloween fast approaching, it is time to begin thinking about what to hand out for Trick or Treating! Living in Boston, we all know that this is a fun and exciting time. Before rushing to the store to buy bags of candy this year, consider these fun alternatives to make for a more friendly experience for kids that may have dietary restrictions or significant food allergies.

• Popcorn
  Instead of handing out candy, consider providing a healthier but still tasty treat such as popcorn. Kids love the delicious taste of popcorn, and their parents can rest comfortably knowing that their kids are eating a sugar-free treat. Some parents can be especially health-conscious, so other simple foods to hand out could include oranges, granola bars, or pretzels.
• Hot Cocoa
  Living in Boston, it gets to be pretty cold around Halloween. Hand out fresh hot cocoa to parents and kids alike, to give everybody an opportunity to keep warm. The mini-marshmallow type of cocoa is an added treat for kids and can be served in a biodegradable coffee cup. Hot chocolate mixes served with a cup of boiling water are the best option, as hot chocolate served in a mix comes in a sealed bag that will be more comfortable for parents to serve their kids.
• Pencils
  For those that want to provide a more practical item to kids, pencils serve as an excellent option. Every kid needs more pencils, and their parents will be grateful that they do not have to go out and buy more of them. These are an inexpensive treat that will be useful and usable for almost every single kid.
• Yo-Yos
  A yo-yo can be a fun treat for a kid. These can be purchased inexpensively in large quantities and provide a fun and entertaining experience for younger kids. Since most children these days do not have yo-yos, this old-school toy can provide a lot of enjoyment and remind parents of their younger years as kids. 
• Mini-Flashlights
  In Massachusetts, the days get to be pretty short by the time October 31st rolls around, meaning most kids are trick-or-treating in the darkness. In the neighborhoods north of Boston, a mini-flashlight can be an especially interesting treat that both provide amusement to the kids that receive them while also enhancing their visibility and safety at night, which is sure to relieve their parents.

These are just a few of the many options that can be given to kids on Halloween as an alternative to candy, that can make your house one of the more unique stops on any kid’s trick-or-treating tour.

Don’t forget to go to our Costume Event Page and post a picture of your best Halloween Costume for a chance to win a prize!