Halloween is just around the corner — do you have your teal pumpkin out?
You have probably heard of the Teal Pumpkin Project or seen a mention of it on your social media accounts. But what really is it? The Teal Pumpkin Project is an initiative of FARE, Food Allergy Research & Education. The project encourages people to raise awareness of food allergies and promotes inclusion of all trick-or-treaters throughout the Halloween season. The nationwide movement offers an alternative for kids with food allergies, as well as other children for whom candy is not an option.
According to The Teal Pumpkin Project, one in 13 children in the United States has a food allergy – that’s roughly two in every classroom.
The project doesn’t advocate not giving out candy; instead, it suggests offering an alternative non-food treat for those who have allergies or for whatever reason, candy isn’t an option. It’s easy to participate! Purchase non-candy items to distribute on Halloween (in addition to your candy). Just like your turn your lights on and put out a pumpkin to let your neighbors know that you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters, just put out a teal pumpkin (or print out a teal pumpkin sign) and let neighbors know that you have allergy-safe treats, too! Just be sure to keep your candy and non-candy options in different bowls.
Even if your child doesn’t have food allergies, participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project helps make Halloween a little sweeter for ALL kids.
After all, it takes a village, right?
