How I Handle Halloween as a Mom and Dietitian

Halloween is hands down my favorite holiday of the year. As both a mom and a registered dietitian, I get a lot of questions about how we “do” Halloween at our house—especially when it comes to candy.

The short answer? We enjoy it.

Here’s what Halloween typically looks like for our family, and why this approach works so well for us.

1. We Eat an Early Dinner

Before meeting up with friends for trick-or-treating, my kids eat an early dinner. A full meal with protein, carbs, and fat helps keep energy steady and prevents everyone from feeling overly hungry while walking the neighborhood.

We’re lucky to have a great group of friends we trick-or-treat with, and my kids don’t mind if we tag along. It makes the night feel social, relaxed, and fun.

2. We Pack for the Night

Trick-or-treating is thirsty work. I always bring water—or hot tea or cocoa if the weather is cold. I also bring an empty backpack because costumes inevitably start shedding pieces along the route. This is one of those lessons I learned the hard way.

3. Candy Is Part of the Fun

My kids usually eat a few pieces of candy as they walk, but most of the fun is in the collecting. They love waiting until the end of the night to see what they’ve got—and trading candy is one of their favorite parts.

Some of my own favorite childhood memories are trading gummies for Reese’s with my brother, and I love watching my kids build those same traditions.

4. We Welcome Trick-or-Treaters at Home

When we get back, I set out a bowl of candy and salty snacks along with a cooler of juice boxes for trick-or-treaters. I always try to include some allergy-friendly options and a few non-food items too.

It’s a small way to make Halloween feel inclusive and welcoming for all kids.

5. We End the Night Without Fuss

At the end of the night, we take our parental “tax,” and the kids eat what they want—usually about 5–10 mini candies. The rest goes into the cabinet, and they’re allowed to take one piece a day in their lunches.

There’s no pressure, no bargaining, and no constant asking for more. Because candy isn’t restricted or moralized, it quickly becomes just another food.

Why This Works

This approach supports trust, structure, and enjoyment—all key pieces of a healthy relationship with food. Halloween doesn’t need to be controlled or chaotic. It can simply be a fun night with predictable routines and room for joy.

And then… that’s a wrap on the best night of the year.

How do you handle Halloween candy in your house? Any traditions you treasure?