Halloween Healthy Tips for Treats

As a parent with Halloween just around the corner, dreams of rotting teeth and dental bills loom on the horizon. I've got three, one daughter and two nephews, and the sugar high alone is enough to drive even the calmest parent loco. So here are some ideas on how to treat the children in your neighborhood with treats that are healthier than sweets.

1: The old stand-by, a fruit basket. Have on hand apples, oranges, even cut up bananas in a festively decorated basket for the children to choose from. Not only will this please parents, they're much healthy than those candies from the store.

2: Or, you could make popcorn balls, preferably simply lightly salted, or with a low amount of sugar for adhesion. Are these perfect, no, but they're still healthier than candy. You can also make baggies of popcorn, to keep sugar out completely.

3: Now, if you just need to pass out candy, go sugarless. Not only will kids still eat these, but also diabetic children will be able to enjoy some candy on this sugary holiday.

4: A low fat cookie package, either store bought or made from a recipe. All kids love cookies, and with low sugar treats, it's easy to make something both children and parents will love.

5: If you go to a Halloween party instead of trick or treating at, say, a community center or church, you may even consider bringing canned goods for those less fortunate. Not only will this help local families, but teach your child the greatness of charity.

6: Toys instead of treats. Trust me, those little spider rings and bracelets will go over with the children. Be careful with this option, and make sure you have toys for small children that aren't choke hazards.

If you make homemade treats, make sure to package them in some type of wrap or baggy, to keep them fresh and protect them. Also, try to keep even store bought candies in some type of wrapper, and check everything for tampering.

Finally, make sure when you take your own children out, to be safe. Wear bright colored clothes that can be seen easily by cars. Only go to houses that you know the family living there. If you are a new parent, search the Internet for more safety tips for trick or treating. However, most of all, enjoy the holiday, and keep your little goblin safe for next year.