Homemade Halloween treats too scary for parents

Q: Each year we try to think of healthful treats to hand out during Halloween. I think we're pretty much stuck; what's something new that parents will actually allow their kids to eat, since it'd be homemade? Are there any new, healthy treat ideas?

A: I've had very good luck with finding nonfood treats to hand out to trick-or-treaters in recent years. The neighborhood children all seemed to be thrilled with the mini packs of Play-Doh I gave them. Keep an eye on your local ads; these were sold specifically as a trick-or-treat size pack at Walgreens one year and Target last year. Check out the holiday decorations section at the stores and see if any of the small toys, pencils, etc., fit into the price range you've set for treats. — A.M.J. in Sun Prairie, Wis.

Anything that is homemade will most likely end up in the trash can. As a parent, I would never allow my child to take or eat anything that was made in someone else's kitchen because I don't know what's in it or if there's something my child may be allergic to. For safety reasons, don't forget that there are people out there in the world who will try to harm kids on purpose. I think back to the 1980s when candy had pins and needles inside. I'm not saying that this is your intent. However, I am saying that for the safety of my child and others, I wouldn't allow candy or treats that were made by a stranger to be eaten by my child. Just go to the store and buy pre-packaged goodies like everyone else. — T. Reyna in St. Louis

Halloween snacks don't have to be unhealthy, sugary treats. Try Crispy Green's healthy freeze-dried fruit snacks. They offer parents a fun and healthy choice for real fruit snacks. You can go to crispygreen.com for more information. — Renee Hewett in Fairfield, N.J.

One safety issue we're always faced with is allergies. Homemade treats could contain any number of allergens if you're not careful. Of course, anything that is not individually packaged can pose a safety issue. Remember the razor blades in apples scare from years ago? That said, it seems that each year we see new, healthier treats like raisins, pretzels, granola bars, trail mix and nonfood items such as stickers or toys. — Gayle C. in Madison, Wis.

FROM JODIE

If you personally know some neighborhood children that look forward to your homemade treats, why not call their parents for ideas? You can make absolutely sure that your treats are allergy-safe. Parents will tell you what you should watch out for, but if they don't, or you can't contact everyone you need to, be safe and buy bagged. You have to be sure who your trick-or-treaters are or you could deliver homemade goodies to those you personally know after talking with their parents. Unfortunately, unless you clear it with each family, don't assume your hand-crafted treats will be warmly received or considered healthful enough for their kids.

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