It’s almost time for ghosts and ghouls to roam the streets in your
neighborhood. What this means for some parents is days of having students
on a candy-fuelled bender. Of course you want your kids to experience
the joy of trick or treating, but there are healthier options that are
still good to eat. Here are some options for you to consider at home or
in the classroom.
Dark chocolate covered nuts
Dark chocolate contains less vegetable fat and the high cocoa content
is filled with healthy anti-oxidants. Nuts are just plain healthy and
good brain food too! These healthy snacks can be found at your local organic
and health food stores.
Mini Microwavable Popcorn
This can be a fun snack that students can make for themselves. Popcorn
is filling and packed with healthy fiber. Opt for varieties that do not
have artificial flavours or added preservatives. Students can add their
own flavouring like lemon juice or hot sauce.
Granola bars
These are filled with healthy ingredients like dried fruits and nuts,
but are still delicious. You can even splash out and go for the full size
bars or stick to the mini ones if you prefer. Granola bars help to fill
your students up so they eat less candy.
Fruit leathers
These are popular with students and when they are made with 100% fruit,
they can be a great source of vitamins and minerals.
Small packs of sugar-free gum
Some brands help to eliminate bacteria and keep teeth healthy. Avoid brands
that use aspartame to sweeten the gum.
Organic hard candies
You can find these in the health food aisle or online
here. Organic hard candies are great tasting and contain no artificial colours
or flavours and are 100% natural and healthy. These are not suitable for
trick or treaters which orthodontic braces.
Trail mix and nut snack packs
Get these in small snack pack bags. With nuts and sunflower seeds, opt
for the low sodium varieties. You can also throw in some small boxes of raisins.
Crackers
Graham crackers, small snack pack crackers and goldfish crackers are all
good alternatives to candy. Wholegrain crackers would be even better if
you can find them in small packs.
You don’t even have to go for candy at all. Your students will be
getting enough candy from the neighbours, so go for something completely
different.
You can get small toys from the dollar store. Buy packs and break them
open to give each trick or treater their own toy surprise. Toys can be
Halloween-themed like small skulls, fake teeth or fake blood. You can
go for yo-yos and bouncy balls too. Stationary like pens and pencils,
or small decks of cards are also fun. Temporary tattoos and costume jewelry
are always big hits!
