Halloween, Treats and Food Allergies

If you have a child with food allergies, you know how scary a holiday like Halloween can be, and I'm talking about more than just scary costumes or creepy yards.  Most kids who participate in activities such as trick or treat, trunk or treat or even church harvest festivals will unwrap and pop a piece of candy in their mouth before you even notice.

Last year, I heard about the teal pumpkin project.  Basically, if you have a teal pumpkin outside, it is a symbol that you are offering non-food treats for the kids.   Although I had already bought candy before I heard of this, I thought it was a good idea.   I have a daughter who has struggled with some dye allergies so I can appreciate it when something other than candy is offered.  It's also nice for kids with braces who can't eat the chewy treats.  I did not put out a teal pumpkin because I had candy but I also offered non-food items like spider rings, Play-Doh, sunglasses, etc.  I let the kids decide which bowl they wanted to choose from.  Glow sticks would be another fun alternative and you can get them inexpensively from Dollar stores.  For anyone who might consider participating, here is more information on the Teal Pumpkin Project.

This year,  I'm thinking I will buy some books of Frosty coupons from Wendy's.  A book of  5 Jr. Frosty coupons is only $1.00 and the proceeds go to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.  100 coupons for $20.00 seems like a great deal.  The money goes for a great cause and I think most kids would love a free frosty.

Autumn Leaf Mason Jars & Fun Idea's with Leaves!

Although the heat of summer is still here, Autumn is quickly approaching!   I've already noticed some of the leaves on the trees starting to change.   Most of the leaves are still green but I see splashes of orange, red and yellow here and there. 

When I was teaching preschool, I took my students on a leaf collection nature walk every fall.  I gave each of the children a bag to collect pretty leaves on our walk.  The leaves were used for sorting, rubbings, our sensory tub and all sorts of fun activities.  I recently found a really easy and pretty fall craft to do with my own children.  Autumn leaf mason jar candle holders.   All you need is a collection of leaves, a mason jar, Mod Podge and a paint brush or sponge brush.   Even very young children can help collect leaves for this project.  When working with young children, the adult may want to do the Mod Podge but older children can do this with supervision.   The festive jars would be a beautiful decoration for the Autumn months.  I think they would look really pretty on a table decorated for Thanksgiving.   Put a tea light candle inside and enjoy!  Check out the link for pictures and directions.  Autumn Leaf Mason Jars.

Fabric Pumpkin Craft

I discovered this adorable fall craft today. These little fabric pumpkins are so cute. Although an adult or older child may have to do the simple sewing, small children could help gather sticks from outside. They could also help stuff the pumpkins/squash. Enjoy making these Squash Softies.

Pick Your Own Pumpkins and Apples!

My family and I enjoy visiting several "pick your own" farms.  It's a fun experience to pick your own produce.   A few years ago, I found a wonderful site that I love!  You can chose your state, decide which seasonal produce you want to pick and get a list of all of the pick your own farms in your area.   Since Fall is in full swing here in the midwest, we are all about apples and pumpkins right now.   Check out www.pickyourown.org to find an orchard or farm near you!   Enjoy!

Pumpkin Mousse Recipe

It's Pumpkin Time!  Do you enjoy pumpkin treats?  My kids like to help me make Pumpkin Mousse.  It's easy and delicious.  It's also diabetic friendly.  My dad was diabetic so I often made this yummy dessert for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.  The credit for this recipe goes to Mr. Food.
Creamy Pumpkin Mousse:  Ingredients: 1 can (16 ounces) of solid-pack pure pumpkin.  1 package (6-serving size) instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix.  1/4 cup low-fat (1%) milk.  1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.  2 cups frozen light whipped topping, thawed.  Directions: In a medium bowl, with an electric beater on medium speed, beat the pumpkin, pudding mix,milk, and cinnamon until well blended. Fold in the whipped topping until thoroughly blended then spoon into a serving bowl. Cover loosely and chill until ready to serve. 

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 cup):Calories: 65, Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 207 mg,Carbohydrate: 11 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 1 g Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate

Scrumptious Spiders!

I wanted to share some easy spider treats with you that make a fun Halloween treat.

To make a scrumptious spider snack take two round crackers (such as Ritz) and spread peanut butter on one side of each cracker (don't put them together yet) Place four pretzel sticks (or you can snap two in half for four small legs) on each side of one cracker. Place the other cracker on top. Now you have a spider body and legs. To make eyes on the spider dot peanut butter and place two mini chocolate chips (or raisins..whatever your kids like) on the peanut butter. Enjoy!

Another yummy but not as healthy option would be to use cream sandwich cookies such as Oreos and then use string licorice for the legs.

You could also have fun making spider cupcakes using the same idea. Frost the cupcake and use black string licorice for the legs and M&M's or chocolate chips for the eyes.

I hope you get a chance to enjoy some spider snacks!