The only way to avoid tooth decay caused by an overindulgence of Halloween candy is to avoid snacking on sweets altogether. It’s not easy to enforce this kind of dental care and non-candy handouts may not seem like the popular choice but, in recent years – especially with the prevalence of nut allergies – trick-or-treaters look forward to the houses that get a little creative with their Halloween treats.
1. Slime
This sticky stuff is never going out of style. Slimes can be purchased in large batches as witch’s brew or werewolf poison or ghost goo. Or just opt for plain green or orange or black slime for festive colors. The containers don’t have to be big to make an impact.
2. Bubbles
You have options when it comes to bubbles. You can buy these suckers in bulk as mini cylinders or traditional bottles. Just make sure all the lids are on tight before you hand them out. It will be a bubbly night in your neighborhood.
3. Stickers
From jumbo to mini, there are a host of stickers from which to choose. Order a pile of extra-large stickers so the older kids can choose a new stick for their laptop or Hydroflask, or aim for Pokemon-themed to suit the elementary school set. Whatever stickers you have, they aren’t the kind of sticky stuff that’ll cling between the teeth, and if you let the kids make their own picks, they’ll be satisfied.
4. Glow Sticks
Anything that glows in the dark will be a hit with the trick-or-treating crowd. You can buy glow-in-the-dark necklaces and bracelets for pennies on the dollar. Or if you want to get fancy, select LED finger lights that just keep going.
5. Slap Bracelets
They were popular decades ago and they’re back again. A slap bracelet is a toy, a weapon against siblings, an accessory, and a great sound all in one. What’s not to love? Stick with a Halloween theme or just go all-in for a rainbow of colors and designs so the ghouls can pick their favorite.
6. Fidget Toys
Fidget toys have evolved beyond fidget spinners. Pop bracelets, clicky blocks, snapping magnets, silicone stretch worms, animal squishies – the options are endless, and you can easily pick up a pack of bulk options and let the kids choose at random.
7. Erasers
Erasers are cool. They’ve been cool for a long time. They no longer just top your pencil or only come in one color. They’re 3D, puzzles, and shaped like kids’ favorite video game characters. You can knock this one out of the park by providing a treat that’s fun, useful, and a toy.
8. Toothbrush and Flossers
Okay, this treat might get your house egged unless you’re a dentist and people know it, but sometimes a kid is thrilled with a new toothbrush – and their parents sure will love you for it.
You don’t have to stay away from all candy on Halloween – just indulge in moderation so you can truly enjoy the good stuff without wrecking your smile (this goes for kids and grown-ups). If it’s time, schedule a visit with your dentist Dr. Harbpinder Shevchenko at Smiles by the Sea in Hampton, NH, for quality dental care and a thorough cleaning soon after Halloween.