Hints for a Happy, Healthier Halloween

September was the month of childhood obesity awareness, yet here we are, in October, about to hand out all sorts of calorie- and sugar-packed candy to children dressed as ghouls, goblins and fairies.

Halloween is just one day, but those candy bars can last into next year. Some local doctors, moms and nutritionists, though, have fresh and creative ideas to keep the spirit of Halloween while cutting down on the sweets.

Encino pediatrician Dr. Catherine Marshall developed creative ways to deal with Halloween candy when she learned her daughter was allergic to most of the treats being handed out.

“The kids love trick-or-treating and dressing up," Marshall said. “I tell my patients to have their kids trade in candy for small toys and set a price. For example, a small toy can cost 10 pieces of candy.”

At home, Marshall uses a system in which her kids can trade in Halloween candy for an extension on their bedtime or on time in front of the television.

She suggested offering items to trick-or-treaters that are fun or healthy, such as sugarless gum, Pirate's Booty snacks, popcorn, stickers or tattoos.

Nutritional consultant and educator Kay Curtis is against handing out candy. Curtis opts for giving small toys such as rings, puzzles, bracelets and stamps.

“When I first started this 'no candy on Halloween' thing, my husband said our house would get egged or toilet-papered, but the kids were thrilled!” Curtis said.

Curtis shops for toys at the 99 Cent Store, Target and party stores. Party favors make great finds for trick-or-treaters, she said.

Lisa Keating, known as “Encino Mom” of EncinoMom.Com, kicks off Halloween with a nutritious meal before making the neighborhood rounds for treats. She also gives out small toys or party favors to trick-or-treaters.

“We confiscate candy that isn’t age-appropriate,” Keating said. “At our house that means if you aren’t old enough to walk, you don’t get gum!”

According to Keating there are lots of options for surrendering excess candy to support worthy causes. A few of her local favorites are Encino Elementary's annual candy drive, in which candy is collected and donated to U.S. troops stationed overseas, and the "Halloween Candy Buy-Back" by dentist Dr. David Shannon of Natural White Smile in Northridge.

Between Nov. 1 and 5, Shannon buys back Halloween candy at $1 per pound and donates it to the USO. If you would like to participate in Shannon’s cause you may drop off candy at 18915 Nordhoff St. in Northridge.

“You can make it creative,” Marshall said. “Limit the amount of candy and don’t let Halloween make you forget the healthy eating habits you want your children to have.”