Trick-or-Treat(s): 25 Non-Food Items to Hand Out this Halloween
Katey completing the Rock and Run for Mental Health
Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. I have always enjoyed the great sense of community, getting to know my neighbors, and handing out treats to excited kids and families. I love taking in the joy and excitement of everyone around me who is dressing up as something they enjoy or are passionate about. Halloween is such a beautiful opportunity to share a piece of who we are and take part in sharing joy with kids and adults alike.
Every year that I have lived in a house, I have looked forward to Halloween night. I’ve bought pounds upon pounds of candy to hand out and encouraged kids to take heaping handfuls. I would sit on my porch, in the cold, dressed up, carved pumpkins aglow, simply waiting for all of the trick-or-treaters to parade through the neighborhood.
Last year, when I was looking to move into a condo building, one of my first thoughts was, “But what about Halloween?! What about trick-or-treating?!” I definitely couldn’t pass up on the holiday!! It brings me so much joy!!
In discussing my dilemma with a dear friend of mine, we decided to co-host a Trick-or-Treating Party at her home for other adults, like me, who LOVE handing out treats but who wouldn’t have the chance to because of where they lived (out in the country, an apartment, dorms, etc).
This year, the theme for the party is “anything but candy”. As someone with multiple dietary restriction (Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Apple Free), I personally appreciate this creative approach to handing out treats on Halloween. Anything but candy could include healthy snacks, drinks, fidgets, toys, games, stickers, etc. Truly, we are only limited by our creativity here!
While this is my first year with a true trick-or-treating party theme, I have always kept a separate bowl of non-candy treats on hand at my house. I know several children who also have food allergies or restrictions and LOVE being one stop on the trick-or-treating parade where parents can have less worry.
With non-candy treats as well, parents have one less things to say “no”, “later” or “not right now” to. “Of course you can play with that fidget while we keep walking” is far more pleasant to hear for a child than “You have to wait” for the 30th time.
I’m truly feeling like this “anything but candy” party is going to be a big hit and would highly encourage others to consider at least having the option. :)
I’ve put together a list of 25 of my favorite, low-cost, non-candy treats you can have in time for Halloween.
Halloween Stamps - 18 treats for under $7.
Stretchy Sensory Strings - A fun Halloween theme fidget toy
Flip Sequin Keychains - I would like these for myself, please & thanks.
Halloween Pop-its - These come with little cards and are currently 3/$1
Halloween Sticker Sheets - The kids I work with LOVE these.
Halloween Coloring Books - Let’s be real, this could even be for the grown people.
100 pack of pop mini keychains - These are what I ordered and I’m SO excited.
My FAVORITE Sensory Stress Balls - They are the most squishy.
Rainbow Scratch Art Masks - An easy wind-down activity to engage in at home.
Slap Bracelet - Because the 90’s are back.
Kinetic Sand - Such fun AND hopefully easier to clean up than slime
Bubble Wands - a year-round treat AND something to keep kiddos engaged while walking house to house.
Mochi Squishy Toys - We give these out at our office as prizes and kids LOVE them. One of our party guest is bringing them to hand out :)
Mystery Rare Pokemon Cards - You could put them in small envelopes to keep them a true surprise.
Building Block Animals - Small kits to build your favorite animals!
Fidget Toy Assortment - Can’t pick just one? Get a variety pack.
Playdoh Minis - Do be aware, these do contain wheat!
While I personally selected mini pop-its to hand out, I’ve purchased or handed out all of these items to kids of all ages! In my work settings, we’ve used all of these options for stuffing treasure chests, handing out prizes, and as small activities. Kids (and many adults) have always been thrilled to receive any one of these special treats.
Enjoy and Happy Halloween!
<3 Katey
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