Updated: July 8, 2021
Originally Published: October 18, 2019
As a child in the 1970s, I fondly recall watching “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” every Halloween. It became a cherished tradition in many homes, and even now, families look forward to it with excitement, reminiscing about their own childhoods. I couldn’t wait to share this special ritual with my kids. For nearly ten years, I’ve enjoyed it with my daughter and five years with my son.
However, this year, the experience will carry a new significance. After my 4-year-old son was diagnosed with severe food allergies last December, we’ve had to adjust our holiday traditions to keep him safe. This means rethinking our food choices and treats.
Over the past eleven months, I’ve immersed myself in learning about food allergies. Despite having a life-threatening allergy to shellfish myself, I realized I had a lot to learn. Many people are unaware of the serious risks associated with food allergies.
Before my son’s diagnosis, I never considered the challenges faced by trick-or-treaters with dietary restrictions. This past year has been eye-opening, and it’s clear that I can always strive to be a better person and do more for others, especially children.
One initiative I discovered is the Teal Pumpkin Project, launched by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) in 2014. This wonderful campaign promotes inclusivity for all children during Halloween. By placing a teal pumpkin or a FARE sign outside your home, you signal to trick-or-treaters that you have safe, non-food treats available. It’s essential to keep these items stored separately from candy to avoid cross-contamination.
Many children face food-related challenges, and they deserve the same fun and excitement of trick-or-treating as everyone else. I don’t want my son, or any child, to miss out on the joy of going door-to-door and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
My son can no longer eat the candy he collects. Instead, I’ll replace it with safe options that we’ve chosen ahead of time. We plan to donate his collected candy to his sister’s school, which will pass it along to charity. This year, I’m hopeful he’ll receive non-food treats as well.
With one in 13 children affected by food allergies, the wrong snack can be life-threatening. Let’s show our support by placing a teal pumpkin outside and offering fun items like spider rings or glow bracelets in a separate bowl. Even if only a few kids with food allergies visit, your efforts will make a significant impact.
When I see a teal pumpkin this Halloween, I’ll take a moment to appreciate the kindness of those who provide non-food treats. I’ll express my gratitude because every gesture counts.
Over the past few years, I’ve learned that family and helping others are what truly matter. When you begin to care for one person in need, you expand your capacity for compassion toward many more.
Our tradition of watching the Charlie Brown special will remain, but its meaning will evolve. Charlie Brown yearns for love and belonging, just like children with food allergies. Linus symbolizes hope—a hope we all strive to hold onto.
This year, let’s ensure that children eagerly await the arrival of the Great Teal Pumpkin. Remember, the Great Teal Pumpkin is you!
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Summary:
This article discusses the importance of the Teal Pumpkin Project, which promotes inclusivity for children with food allergies during Halloween. The author reflects on personal experiences with food allergies in her family and emphasizes the joy of providing safe, non-food treats to ensure all children can enjoy the festivities.