🎃 Halloween Safety Tips for Toddlers: What to Keep (and Toss) from the Trick-or-Treat Bag
Halloween is one of the most magical nights of the year — adorable costumes, glowing pumpkins, and the joy of trick-or-treating! But if you’re celebrating with a toddler, it’s worth taking a few extra precautions to keep the night fun, safe, and inclusive for all kids.
This week, one of our members sent us an excellent article by Darria Long, M.D., an ER doctor and mom, on BabyCenter. She shared what she removes from her own child’s Halloween bag — and why. Her advice is full of great reminders for parents of little ones heading out this spooky season.
🚫 3 Things to Watch Out For:
Hard or chewy candies
Popular options like Jolly Ranchers, gummies, and lollipops can be choking hazards for toddlers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding gum until at least age 4.Tiny trinket toys
Those small light-up rings or magnetic toys that sneak into treat bags can easily break apart or be swallowed.Balloons
Balloons can form an airtight seal if swallowed — one of the most serious choking risks for young children.
✅ Safer (and Still Fun!) Treat Options:
Dr. Long recommends swapping or offering:
Soft chocolate bars (Hershey’s, Kit Kat, Crunch)
Pretzels or cereal snack bags
Animal crackers or cookies
Fruit pouches or veggie straws
They’re toddler-friendly, easy to eat, and far less likely to cause a choking scare.
💙 Mamas and Minis & the Teal Pumpkin Project
At Mamas and Minis, we’re proud to participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project, a nationwide movement to make Halloween safer and more inclusive for children with food allergies and dietary restrictions.
When you see a teal pumpkin on a doorstep, it means that home offers non-food treats — like stickers, bubbles, pencils, or small toys — so every child can enjoy the magic of trick-or-treating.
If you’re participating, here are some easy non-food ideas:
Glow sticks or light-up bracelets
Mini Play-Doh
Stamps, stickers, or temporary tattoos
Mini coloring pads or crayons
By joining the Teal Pumpkin Project, we’re helping all kids — including those with allergies or dietary needs — feel included in the fun.
🩺 A Final Word on Safety
Whether you’re trick-or-treating in Millburn or your own neighborhood, remember:
Stick to well-lit streets and sidewalks.
Keep costumes short enough to avoid tripping.
Always check your toddler’s treats before they dig in.
When in doubt, swap it out — and keep a few safe treats on hand for happy little ghouls.
Source:
Long, D. (2025, October 2). 3 things I'm taking out of my toddler’s Halloween bag as an ER doctor. BabyCenter. https://www.babycenter.com/health/safety-and-childproofing/toddler-halloween-bag_41003520
