As part of creating a more inclusive Halloween for all children – especially those with allergies, the “Teal Pumpkin Project” has inspired people all over the United States to set out a Teal pumpkin on Halloween. This symbol lets families know that they provide a non- food item to include children with allergies.
The FARE (Food Allergy and Research Education) website includes information about the project and a map on which houses can register themselves to let families know what houses are participating.
The website lists suggestions on what non-food treats to include or avoid, as some non-food treat items use latex or wheat based materials that could cause allergic reactions. These items can be purchased in packs from many retailers, including online stores or chains such as the dollar store.
Our Recommendations
Glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces Pencils, pens, crayons or markers Bubbles Halloween erasers or pencil toppers Mini Slinkies Whistles, kazoos, or noisemakers Bouncy balls Finger puppets or novelty toys Coins Spider rings Vampire fangs Mini notepads Playing cards Bookmarks Stickers Stencils
The Teal Pumpkin Project recommends giving children the choice between “candy or prize” when they come to the door. This can be done verbally and or with the use of a physical sign depicting a teal pumpkin as a reminder. We created a free printable sign for you that can be used to indicate you are allergy safe.
Keep the prizes in a separate bowl from the food treats. As an added touch, you could differentiate between non-food treats and food items by packaging them with our personalized Halloween stickers!
Now it is time to get creative with your Teal Pumpkins! The group construction of the Teal Pumpkin can be a great way to teach kids about Halloween inclusion and safety for everyone. You can simply paint a pumpkin a solid teal, or add a fun design!
Here is some of our favorite creative Teal Pumpkins inspiration.
