Teal Is The New Orange This Halloween

Some parents might be dreading the thought of trick-or-treat as it foreshadows a lengthy battle between candy-crazed kids and well-intentioned parents. Because it's a tradition and a childhood rite of passage, trick-or-treat is just something you do. But what happens when your kid has juvenile diabetes, a nut allergy or gluten sensitivity? What happens to all the candy they collect? It's not like your kid is going to ring a doorbell, say the magic words and then wave his hand at the passing of candy – "No, neighbor, you keep it. I can't have any of that."

This year, you have the option of keeping the tradition alive and strong with the help of some teal pumpkins. For neighbors of yours who have sugar-free treats, peanut-be-gone options, gluten-less and non-dairy selections, they're going to let you know. This is something you can do as well. Offer quarter-machine toys, stickers, tattoos and other fun items instead of the sugar-loaded go-to treats. This is the dawn of The Teal Pumpkin Project.

The program was actually launched last year, but expect to see it take off more this holiday. Stock up on some sugar-free options, or follow this list below to get inspired: (via The Teal Pumpkin Project)

• Glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces
• Pencils, pens, crayons or markers
• Bubbles
• Halloween erasers or pencil toppers
• Mini Slinkies
• Whistles, kazoos, or noisemakers
• Bouncy balls
• Finger puppets or novelty toys
• Coins
• Spider rings
• Vampire fangs
• Mini notepads
• Playing cards
• Bookmarks
• Stickers
• Stencils

If you want to let neighbors know you're participating, download a yard sign or ad via The Teal Pumpkin Project, print it out and post it for all to see. Now, go get those costumes ready. It's time walk the neighborhood and make some memories!