Guide to a Healthy Halloween
How to Maximize Halloween Fun While Staying Healthy
Halloween is loved by many children and parents all over America. The ancient Celts brought about this holiday long ago as a yearly festival dedicated to the period of time when they believed the veil between the spirit and living world was it thinnest, and therefore spirits had more power in the world of the living. Costumes were worn to ward off the evil that spirits might bring.
Much has changed in regards to Halloween since ancient times. Costumes are still worn, though for fun and trick-or-treating, and the "treat" has become a major selling point for candy manufacturers everywhere. Candy sales in 2009 are expected to top $2.16 billion, which is up 3.4 percent from 2008.
Halloween Earlier and Earlier.....
The sales prediction noted above is dated more than a month before Halloween occurs. It seems that every year the sweet treats hit the shelves just a bit earlier, in anticipation of the big day to come. Earlier sweets mean more money for the candy companies and a perceived longer celebration for many pleasure-deprived Americans.
But just how early is too early when it comes to celebrating Halloween? America is looking head on at an ominous health crisis that includes a major childhood obesity epidemic. Maybe it is time to rethink the part of the tradition that overloads children and parents with refined sugars, preservatives and empty calories. The real question is, how can Americans maintain the tradition of one of their favorite holidays while not going over board and risking their health?
Limiting Candy
Over the years there has been a strong association made between candy and Halloween. Just as a greeting card does not necessarily mean a proper Valentine's or birthday wish, candy does not and should not define Halloween. Children enjoy trick-or-treating immensely, however, and most people still provide candy... so what can be done? Barter works exceptionally well. Imagine something that your child loves more than candy and offer to trade the candy for the item. After the candy has been bartered away (well, most of it, anyway), parents can either toss it or take it to a local candy collection station. Better yet, parents should be considerate to other parents and their children by offering treats that are not unhealthy or toxic to children or the environment. With just a little imagination, Halloween can be fun and healthy.
Ideas for Great Treats
A "treat" can be many things to many different people. Here are some ideas for treats that won't harm children or the pocketbook:
- Gel pens in multiple colors where the children get to pick their own
- Rubber balls that look like eyes
- Pencils decorated with Halloween themes
- Stickers
- Small fake bats, snakes or spiders
The focus of this article is to keep the fun in Halloween while attempting to find healthier ways to enjoy the holiday. With the cooperation of everyone concerned this goal can be easily accomplished. Happy Halloween!
Sources:
Selna, Robert. Candy Sales Strong Despite Recession. Sanfrancisco Chronicle. September 23, 2009. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/09/23/BUAE19QDLV.DTL
Guide to a Healthier Halloween
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