Halloween = candy, lots of it!  While visions of mini-Snickers bars and candy corn may be dancing in your child's head, it need not be a complete sugarfest for your kiddo.  Here are some simple treat ideas to consider giving out this Halloween instead of candy.  These are fun, cheap, and creative, and a nice alternative to all the junk food.

1. Peanuts:  bag up some unshelled peanuts in small ziploc-style baggies.  Nuts are tasty, packed with protein, and fun to crack open.  Parents who have children with nut allergies will  be able to easily spot the bag and remove it from their child's halloween stash.
2. Granola bars:  inexpensive, pre-wrapped, and ready for the lunchbox.  
3. Raisins:  remember the little boxes from your childhood?  they still make 'em!
4. Cheese & cracker snacks:  prepackaged packs of cheese and crackers or peanut butter and crackers make a tasty snack.
5. String cheese:  avialable in individually-wrapped pieces and a nutritious dairy alternative to say, milk duds.
6. Animal crackers:  available in small packages, animal crackers are a bit healthier than cookies and fun to eat too.
7. Applesauce cups:  another easy-to-grab alternative to sugary snacks
8. Sugar-free gum:  also consider other sugar-free candy products.
9. Fruit:  Toss in an apple or banana and promote nature's candy.
10. Non-food:  give your visitors a small toy, a bookmark, pack of playing cards, or seeds for next year's garden.  The possibilites are endless!

 For more fun ideas, visit Family Fun's Halloween "Creepy Cuisine" feature or check out books with recipes including Donata Miggipinto's, Halloween Treats:  Recipes and Crafts for the Whole Family (641.568 MAG). 

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!