10 healthy alternatives to halloween candy

Halloween is around the corner and that means candy & sugar everywhere you turn. On the end cap in BUCKETS at every store. At school. At work. And of course Halloween night itself when kids, adorable as they may be dressed as various Disney or Pixar characters walking door to door getting sacks and sacks of sugar laden candy. That they will inevitably want because its colorful and sweet and it was given to them for looking "oh so cute", so I have put together a list of healthier options to trade some of that out with, or for you to pass out at your home, or enjoy yourselves throughout the season. There are also a few recipes linked below as well! I'd love to hear your feedback on how YOU make healthier choices for your littles. 

• 1. Raisins - Raisins, though high in natural sugar are a much healthier choice than the alternative. You can also make homemade, dairy-free chocolate covered raisins at home. Click here for the quick and easy recipe. 
  
• 2. Granola Bars - With many varieties now available in gluten and dairy free, Granola bars are an easy pre-packaged treat to hand out for Halloween. Or for your own lil' ghosts and goblins you can make your own at home! 
  
• 3. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds - Roast pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet in the oven with your favorite sweet or savory spices for a treat with a nice crunch!
  
• 4. 100% Fruit Bars - Available in a variety of fruit flavors at most markets, you can find them with no added sugar. Also individually wrapped to make it an easy choice for hungry little trick or treaters. 
  
• 5. Dehydrated Fruit Slices - I adore my dehydrated, and dehydrated peaches, plums and apples satisfy my sweet tooth when I'm craving. Kids will love helping to make these, parents slice them up and have the little ones help lay them out on the dehydrator racks and sprinkle with cinnamon. 
  
• 6. Plastic Halloween Rings - A non-food item that kids would love to play with or receive at Halloween. Found at party stores, you can find witches, pumpkins and cats that they can adorn their little hands with. 
  
• 7. Homemade Fruit Snacks - Making your own fruit snacks saves your littles from consuming to much added sugar, artificial dyes and preservatives. Plus its a fun fall project! Click here for a recipe from The Wellness Mama. 
  
• 8. Cinnamon Almonds - One of my PERSONAL favorites! Make sure to save this treat for the older littles :) And of course children without a nut allergy. But these warm, crunchy little delights can replace candy in my house anyday. I will have a crockpot recipe coming for Christmas time that is sure to delight!
  
• 9. Organic Candy - If you are a super-busy mama, or just don't like to spend too much time in the kitchen there are organic, healthier options when it comes to buying candy. An example would be Justin's Peanut Butter Cups, found at health food stores.  Or for the kiddos who can't tolerate milk, I LOVE the Enjoy Life chocolate bars, available in light chocolate, dark chocolate and crunchy rice. 
  
• 10. Gift Cards - And last but not least, if you want to give your little a little treat that isn't related to food a gift card to pick out a small toy or app for the iPad may be just the ticket ;) 
  

Whatever you choose to do this Halloween, be safe, have fun and Nosh healthy!  - Mandi