The Meaning of the Teal Pumpkin

This post is near and dear to my heart.  Many years ago I had a little seven year old patient tell me he “hated Halloween.”  He had several and severe food allergies.  He saw no point in going out and doing “all that work” trick or treating when he would not get to enjoy those treats.  And to be completely honest, I was not keen on the idea of this child even touching the wrapped candy.  Plus, one of my daughters has a severe allergy to red dye.  This is why the Teal Pumpkin Project is so very important!  Having a Teal Pumpkin on your porch on trick or treat night lets trick-or-treaters know you have non-food treats available.  Let’s raise the awareness of food allergies and promote the inclusion of all trick-or-treaters throughout the Halloween season.

You should see bins full of Teal Pumpkins at Michael’s craft stores with signs similar to the one below.  Please buy one and place it on your porch.  Consider purchasing small items from the dollar store such as pencils, erasers, and other non-food holiday items to give out as an alternative treat.

Last year households in all 50 states and in 14 countries participated in The Teal Pumpkin Project.  This is a worldwide movement to help create a safer and enjoyable Trick or Treat night for children with food allergies.  You can find out more about The Teal Pumpkin Project here: http://www.foodallergy.org/teal-pumpkin-project#.V_5AAIWcGUk.  Teal is the new orange!

The Teal Pumpkin is so important that even the dollhouse got one!

Please join The Teal Pumpkin Project!  Happy Halloween!