How to make Halloween safe and fun for every child
- 16 October 2025
- News
Halloween should be a night full of laughter, costumes, and community — not worry or exclusion. For families managing serious allergies, this time of year can bring extra challenges. The good news is, with a few simple steps, we can all help make Halloween a celebration every child can enjoy.
This year let’s work together to make the night inclusive, safe, and fun for everyone — from the trick-or-treaters at your door to the children celebrating in schools and communities across the UK.
Food allergies affect around 3-5% of the UK population so it’s highly likely there are people with allergies in your local community, family or school. The following checklists can help you take small, positive steps that can make a big difference.
For parents and the local community
Even if your family isn’t personally affected by allergies, showing that you consider people’s allergies helps them to feel more included and safer. Here’s how to make sure your treats bring smiles to everyone.
- Pack safe swaps so children don’t feel left out. Avoid items with the top 14 common allergens if possible.
- Offer non-food treats (stickers, glow sticks, small toys, bubbles) and give children the choice. Keep sweets separate from non-food items to avoid cross-contamination.
- Signal that you are allergy aware with a sign in your window (or use our Halloween poster) or display a teal pumpkin to show your home welcomes children with allergies.
- Keep treats in original packaging so parents can check ingredients.
- Stay positive and patient if a parent or child checks ingredients — it’s about safety, not fuss.
- Spread the word in your community WhatsApp or Facebook group — encourage others to join.
- Keep pets away from the front door during trick-or-treating. Not only may some people have animal allergies, but animals can also get spooked by all the costumes and noise.
For schools and clubs
- Encourage allergy-safe activities like costume parades or craft corners instead of food-based prizes. If using empty food containers for craft, please be aware of the cross-contamination risk.
- Raise awareness through classroom discussions or allergy-friendly displays.
- Avoid balloons in displays in case of latex allergies.
- Communicate with parents ahead of time if using food in activities or providing treats.
We would love to see your allergy inclusive Halloween set-ups, so please remember to tag @AnaphylaxisUK on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s make sure there are no tricks – just treats for everyone this Halloween!
