Kermit was wrong because it is easy being green [on Halloween]! Here are 10 easy ways to make choices that are people-healthy, animal-friendly and Earth-conscious:
1. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute shopping which often limits your choices. In costumes, candy and food!
2. When it comes to costumes and décor—reuse, borrow, trade, purchase used or do-it-yourself.
3. Treat bags can be anything! For extra fun, match the bag to the costume using something you already
own. Here are some ideas: purses, flower pots (cover the hole), cloth sacks, backpacks, lunch boxes.
Reuse those grocery bags!
4. Choose healthier treats. Take baby steps with organic candy and honey sticks, two child-favored choices.
(Honey is not for children under two years of age).
5. Choose fun treasures instead of conventional sweets. Think of the treasures your child collects in her
pockets—pretty rocks, coins, etc.
6. If you’re giving a party, avoid disposables including napkins, plates, cups, tablecloths and other décor.
7. Walk from house to house instead of driving. I don’t remember ever driving while Trick or Treating….
8. Compost pumpkins and any other food, including leftover candy.
9. Collect candy wrappers and help your kids turn them into gift items like purses, bracelets and picture
frames. Find directions on the internet. There are some cute etsy shop items made from candy wrappers!
10. Avoid purchasing any treats made with palm oil.
Check out www.GreenHalloween.org often for hundreds of fun, fresh ideas!
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I received samples from Stretch Island Fruit Co. along with information from Green Halloween. No compensation was given. Comments in italics are mine.
Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.