If you’ve been out and about during Halloween in recent years, you might have noticed more and more teal pumpkins popping up on porches and patios. While orange pumpkins are the classic Halloween symbol, teal pumpkins represent something extra special: safety for children with food allergies. Here’s why placing a teal pumpkin on your patio this Halloween is a small gesture that can make a big difference and bring a bright smile to a child’s face!
You’re Supporting Children with Food Allergies
Halloween is certainly a fun holiday, but for children with food allergies, it can be challenging. Common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten are found in all sorts of popular candies, making trick-or-treating a risky activity for these kids. What’s worse is that often, the “fun-sized” candies that are passed out on Halloween don’t always include labels that signal their ingredients, making things even trickier for children. The teal pumpkin is part of a nationwide movement originating in 2012 called The Teal Pumpkin Project that encourages people to offer non-food treats, meaning that all kids can partake in the fun! Some great non-food alternatives include glow sticks, small toys, stickers, trading cards, coloring books, slinkies, keychains, and other small sentimental items and knickknacks.
You’re Joining in On the Fun While Including All Children
When children come to your door on Halloween, the last thing they want to worry about is whether they’re going to receive something they can actually safely eat or enjoy. For families managing food allergies, this can be stressful. Offering non-food items means you’re acknowledging this and giving children the chance to not miss out on any of the Halloween spirit. Plus, there are arguably many more types of non-food items kids can enjoy compared to candy, so in reality, you might end up being that cool house that kids are excited to visit year after year!
You’re Encouraging Healthier Choices
Halloween is known for an overload of sugary treats, which can contribute to cavities and tooth decay. While candy is fine in moderation, offering non-food items is a great way to promote healthier options during a candy-heavy holiday. This means that by participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, you’re not only supporting children with food allergies and encouraging inclusiveness during Halloween but also advocating good oral hygiene for all!
This year when you’re decorating for Halloween, consider adding a small (or large) teal pumpkin to your display. It’s an easy way to make Halloween a safer, more inclusive holiday for all children without negating any of the fun of the spooky season!
About the Practice
Our team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln has proudly served families in the Worcester community for several years, offering a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a visit for your child, please visit us online or call us today for information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 290-0090.