Although Halloween may look a little different this year, a celebration is just what the naturopathic doctor ordered. Your family’s Halloween traditions may have to change during this unprecedented season, but new pandemic-friendly ones can be made. The attitude of how you approach the changes will determine the amount of fun, bonding and memories that can be made. So, Trick or Treat, pandemic style! Many communities are coming up with contact-free options that still maintain the spirit of the day. With a little thought, and a plan to do it responsibly, all of us at AANMC – wish you and yours a Happy Halloween!
Here are some healthy alternatives to the traditional sugary snacks that will impress parents and children alike!
Boo-nanners
For an unpeeled banana, use a permanent marker to draw ghost eyes and mouth. For a peeled banana, cut in half and use mini chocolate or carob chips to create ghost eyes and mouth.
Spider Eggs
Wash organic green grapes and add them to small snack size plastic bag.
Mummy Juice
Trade out sugary drinks for healthier options. Mini waters may not be super exciting or environmentally friendly, but they do have practical uses. Juice boxes are another great alternative to sodas, but make sure to keep it natural with only 100% organic juice. For a little more fun, consider covering the juice boxes or water bottles with colored construction paper and create designs such as Frankenstein, ghosts or pumpkins.
Cheesy Ghosts
Simply apply three dots for ghost eyes and mouth with permanent marker to an organic wrapped cheese stick.
Fruity Pumpkins
Peel a clementine and add a small celery stalk piece or small pretzel stick to the middle to create a pumpkin. For an unpeeled clementine, use a permanent marker to create a Jack-O-Lantern.
Spider Webs
Place mini pretzel rods in a circle on parchment paper and drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top.
Mummy Hands
Add air-popped popcorn to latex-free plastic gloves and tie the end.
Strawberry Ghosts
Stick a long kabob into the tip of the strawberry and push through the middle. Dip the strawberry in white chocolate and set on wax paper to set. Apply mini chocolate chips for ghost eyes and mouth once the chocolate has solidified a bit.
Brain Jell-O
Organic and preservative-free Jell-O can be added to fun, Halloween themed molds.
Apple Monsters
Cut a wedge halfway across the middle of an apple and line with organic peanut or other nut/seed butter. Add sunflower seeds for teeth and a strawberry slice for a tongue. Feel free to employ the kids in making these as is age appropriate.
Honorable mentions
Consider passing out pencils, erasers or other small Halloween themed gifts instead of store-bought candy.
With these unique and healthy ideas, your house is sure to be a favorite this Halloween!
