This was Brandt’s first Halloween, T-O-T (Trick O’ Treating), and going to unsheltered parties. Before, I have always kept it at home or went to “safe place” parties (majority was allergic safe). My reasons:
- Not ready for the commitment of going into the next phase of independence
- Too many things to control
- I wouldn’t be able to enjoy the party with my kids because of stress
But, this year, he had expressed a lot of interest. It was time, to let all the teaching and preparing him, go into practical life. And yes, there was an allergic plan in place. I wouldn’t be winging this!
Parties
Cub scouts
The Halloween festivities started the night before at the Pack meeting. I brought Dum-Dums (regular not chewy) and another mom had brought pretzels. Unfortunately, they were manufactured at a facility with nuts. I walked away with two bags of unsafe candy.
School party
I had made goody bags with little toys. There were popsicles and juice. All safe foods in the classroom.
Outside, the school had a vendor-like fair. You could buy hot dogs, baked goods, popsicles, juice, water, junk food snacks, dill pickles and small toys. It benefited Relay For Life.
The safe items that Brandt purchased were: dill pickles (he tried it, but I ended up eating it!), and small toys. Not too many, right?
Needless to say, I didn’t like the fact, that all the kids were running around. Going from vendor to vendor, touching each other and eating. Can anyone say, stuck-like-glue?
T-O-T
We left with friends around 6:30pm, and made our way around our development. We weren’t as fast as most kids. Who probably covered twice as much ground than us.
They were too busy absorbing the brightly colored lights, and spooky looking decorations against the setting sun. Once, it hit nightfall, the game was on. Get as much candy as you can.
Compromise
All candies were to be handed over to me, and swapped out if necessary. I had my own little treat bags filled with little toys, pencils, glo sticks, and stuffed animals.
And of course, some safe candy that they could have. I had made some pumpkin pudding bread, apple cider, popcorn and caramel apples. So, everyone’s sweet tooth could be filled.
The picture at the top of the page is from the candy the kids had gotten. Of course, if you times it by five, you’ll get the correct amount.
We didn’t stay out long. But it was enough, for them to laugh, run and wear costumes. And, to be side-by-side with non allergic friends, worry-free. Fully engaged in the fun and ghoulish enjoyment this holiday brings. It was a great success!
Need more ideas, read How to Have an Allergic Safe Halloween
Anaphylaxis & Food Allergy Diary 