Does gluten-free mean that Halloween has to be something that you cannot celebrate?  No, it does not.  It means it is time to get creative and take control of Halloween so that gluten-free does not mean missing out on the fun.

The five tips below can help you to make sure that your child gets to spend a great day without the fear of consuming a treat that will play some awful tricks on him!  On the upside, there is a considerable amount of candy that is actually gluten free!  It is not as hard as you think to find some.  A good rule of thumb when in doubt about something is to call the manufacturer.  You can even do an online search to locate some very reputable listings of gluten-free candies.

1.  Take charge

Throw your own Halloween party.  If you take charge of the day, then you get to prepare the treats and have peace of mind knowing that you are preparing gluten-free treats.  You can combine the gluten-free items with non candy-items like plastic spider rings, that ultimately add to the fun and overall Halloween spirit.

2.  Fair trade

Stock up on gluten-free candy at home.  Play “Lets Make a Deal” with your child where you trade out candy containing gluten for sweet treats that do not.  You can also buy the candy back!  Of course, you will have to be on the losing end of the trades to ensure a happy goblin!

3.  Be the class mom

If your child’s school is having a Halloween party, you want to be sure that you are present to make sure that the treats, that your child is presented with, are gluten free.  Bring a big bag of gluten-free options to share with the class.

4.  Make it less about the candy

Focus less on the treats, and more on the fun of getting dressed up for the big day.  Make it about the decorating, and carving of the pumpkin.  Take photos and then scrapbook the fun in an album, and make it a yearly event.

5.  Set the rules early on

Make sure that you set the rules early on about taking candy out of the bag and eating it.  Purchase the candy you are going to use for “Lets Make a Deal” together.  Remind your child several times before the big day about your “deal” day.

Relax and have fun.  Celebrate the month with all the things that make Halloween fun besides just the candy – crafts, pumpkin picking, pumpkin carving, and enjoying the falling leaves.  Try not to stress as it will work out fine with a bit of preparation and planning!