Happy Halloween from Bozeman Counseling Center!

It’s that time of year again. Pumpkin spice lattes and mums on every front porch. Autumn (okay winter in Bozeman) is officially here and that means Halloween is right around the corner. And THAT means it’s time for parents in Bozeman to grapple with a familiar dilemma: What to give to kids this year that won’t rot their teeth or cause massive sugar spikes? Or maybe finding ways to spread the sugar out so kids and adults are finding some moderation, and still able to enjoy all the Halloween treats.

Halloween candy is no doubt delicious, and maybe it is okay to have some other alternative to hand out to trick-or-treaters. Here are some great candy alternatives kids of all ages are sure to enjoy!

Lunch Box Snacks

There are all kinds of great individually wrapped snack items that are a healthier option. Think about pumpkin seeds, Goldfish, granola bars, and fruit snacks. Some other good options are:

Pretzels

  • Popcorn
  • Crackers
  • Cheese sticks
  • Jerky
  • Trail mix
  • Sugar-free gum
  • Bottled Water

You’d be surprised how many kids and parents would be delighted to get a chilled bottle of water on Halloween. You can become easily hydrated walking around all night.

Themed Bendy Straws

Treats don’t always have to mean something edible. Why not head to your local dollar store and pick up some Halloween-themed bendy straws. I’ve seen some that are orange and black and usually have ghosts or pumpkins attached.

Temporary Tattoos

Most kids will happily receive some temporary scary tattoos in their bags. 

Stickers

And what kids don’t love stickers? Answer: None, they all love them. You can easily find sheets of Halloween stickers at your local big chain stores or an online vendor such as Amazon.

All Things Glowing

Safety first! Kids love items that glow in the dark and parents appreciate the safety features glowing items offer. Think glow sticks, glow bracelets, and necklaces. 

Figuring out what Halloween treats to give your kids and others’ kids don’t have to be a scary proposition. Get creative and think outside the box. There are plenty of items kids and their parents will LOVE and appreciate!

Personally, I am going to hand out fruit snacks at my house. I will admit that at Bozeman Counseling Center, we will have both sugary and health treats available for our clients on Halloween! Moderation in all things! Haha. Happy Halloween and stay warm Bozemanites!

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