[Round Up] Halloween Treats That Aren't Candy
Autism and Halloween can be a tricky combination for some kiddos, but don’t stress - there are still so many ways to make the holiday fun! While we don’t want to bombard our kids with sugary treats that might lead to behavior challenges or tummy troubles, we can still offer treats that our kids will enjoy.
Many parents of kids with autism have reported changes in their child’s behavior when they eat sugary foods, and there is research supporting the connection between autism and sugar as well. In a review of research from 2017, study authors found that there is a link between sugar consumption and a worsening of behaviors in children with autism.[1] While it doesn’t mean that children with autism should never have any sugar, it can definitely help to limit sugar as much as possible. So, we’ve rounded up 15 non-candy Halloween treat ideas to help your child have a fun Halloween - without all the sugar!
(If you are looking for some “better” Halloween candy options, click here!)
GFDF Recipe Ideas
Ideas for Preschoolers
Whoa Dough - Many autistic kiddos are avoiding gluten, so this is a great play-doh alternative that is gluten-free. It also comes in a bunch of bright colors, so it’s a great option for sensory play.
Mini stuffed toys - Stuffed toys are always a treasured gift, and kids can play with them in so many creative ways.
Applesauce Pouches - These make for a great snack and are perfect for handing out to trick-or-treaters or sharing at a class party. I love Go-Go Squeeze brand because they are higher in fiber than many other brands.
Halloween Straws - Kids always love crazy straws, and they are an affordable Halloween treat to share with friends. Stick with paper straws to avoid BPA, which is a chemical found in many plastic products.
LaraBar Minis - LaraBar minis are the perfect treat for little ones, and although they contain natural sugar from dates, they also have fiber and protein, so they won’t cause a sugar rush and crash.
Ideas for Elementary Aged Kids
Fidget Spinners - These toys are perfect for kids who need something to fidget with while they are listening or trying to focus. They come in lots of different colors - they even have ones that light up or glow in the dark, which would be perfect for Halloween!
Trail Mix - Mix up your own treat by creating a blend of your child’s favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. You can also add in coconut flakes, dark chocolate chips, or other add-ins to make it extra special.
Scratch Art - Halloween-themed scratch art would be perfect for a class party or to hand out to trick or treaters - it's always a crowd favorite.
Ghost Banana Pops - For a fun family activity, make these banana ghost pops together!
Sour Raisins - If you have a kiddo who loves sour patch candy, these raisins will hit the spot. They taste like candy, but with no added sugars.
Ideas for Teenagers
Scrunchies - Tween and teens girls always love scrunchies, and these Halloween ones are super cute!
Izze Sparkling Juice - This is a great alternative to soda, especially if your teen is having friends over to hang out. There’s no added sugar, and it comes in a variety of flavors.
Super Sour Bear Yoyos - It’s no secret that teenagers love junk food, and these fruit roll ups taste like a treat, but have wholesome ingredients you can feel good about.
Halloween Stress Balls - These are good for trick-or-treaters or sharing with friends!
Maple Almond Butter Filled Pretzels - If your teen is having friends over, this is the perfect salty-sweet snack that is low in added sugar.
I hope you’ve found some treat ideas to get you started! Sometimes it's the little things our kids remember the most about holidays, so try not to put too much pressure on yourself to find the perfect treats. Carve pumpkins, watch a spooky movie together, or grab a flashlight and take a walk to check out all the neighborhood costumes and decorations. Have a great Halloween!
A note on ingredient quality: If possible, choose products with ingredients that are primarily organic and non-GMO. Stores such as Sprouts, Natural Grocers, Whole Foods, and other health food stores can help finding higher-quality products and ingredients. If access to higher quality products isn't an option for you, choose the best option that is available to you locally.
References
[1] Cekici H, Sanlier N. Current nutritional approaches in managing autism spectrum disorder: A review. Nutr Neurosci. 2019 Mar;22(3):145-155. doi: 10.1080/1028415X.2017.1358481. Epub 2017 Aug 1. PMID: 28762296.
