Halloween can bring not fears not of goblins and ghosts but of food allergic reactions for many families with food allergies.
Even after countless talks of why children should not eat food, that has not been cleared by Mom or Dad, this holiday for allergic families can be a worry some event.
but it does not have to be.
There are options on how to handle Halloween and other food centered holidays.
Most families allow their children to trade their goodies for safe candy treats.
Having safe treats to trade handy, allows parents time to read labels of treats from Halloween bags.
Some children leave their Halloween treats in a special place where the "pumpkin fairy" replaces candy with a small non food gift the next morning.
Pumpkin fairies (with help from Mom or Dad) only visit allergic children.
You may wish to avoid trick or treating all together, instead you can have a "food free" party.
Mad scientist activities for children, and spooky craft activity.
Timing of a food free Halloween party, may be difficult as most friends of food allergic children will still want to go out and trick or treat.
Having your own traditions comes with it's own rewards and memories.
Before Halloween is also a good time to remind teachers to give you notice regarding any food related projects.
This way you can provide a substitute activity and discuss cross contamination issues.
You don't have to give out candy at Halloween.
Go to your local dollar store, you can hand out pencils small toys plastic spiders all safe for children who have any allergy, latex balloons may not be safe for families with latex allergies.