The Teal Pumpkin Project has arrived in Harney County.

Every child should be able to experience the joy and tradition of trick-or-treating on Halloween. But kids with food allergies (and other food-related issues like diabetes and swallowing issues) are often left out of the fun, because most candy is off limits.

Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE)’s Teal Pumpkin Project helps make sure all children come home on Halloween night with something they can enjoy. It just takes one simple act: Offering non-food treat as an alternative to candy. Non-food treat ideas include glow sticks or bracelets, pencils, stickers, spider rings, and mini-notebooks.

Participating in The Teal Pumpkin Project is as easy as 1-2-3. First, purchase or paint a teal pumpkin to display at your home. This lets families know that you will have non-food treats available. Next, purchase non-food treats to hand out on Halloween. Last, but not least, share and be aware. You can let friends and neighbors know that your family will be participating in The Teal Pumpkin Project by printing a poster from FARE and sharing information about the project with others.

Additional tips to help make Halloween a holiday that all children can enjoy:

• Keep in mind that children who are nonverbal may not be able to say “trick-or-treat” or “thank you.” Don’t push for verbal responses, and be sensitive to children who don’t give expected social feedback;

• Be prepared to describe treats for children with blindness or low-vision issues;

• Make sure that you are handing out treats in a well-lit, accessible area. If your house is not accessible, consider handing out treats in a different location, like in the driveway;

• When addressing trick-or-treaters, make sure they can see your face and mouth as you speak. This can help children who struggle with speech and hearing issues. Better still, learn some simple Halloween signs;

• Be observant. Children with anxiety or other issues may wander from a caregiver or safe area.

There are already several community members and businesses participating in the program, so keep an eye out for the teal pumpkins in our community. There will be non-food items available from participating businesses during the Halloween Street Parade on Oct. 31. Just look for the teal pumpkins and ask for the non-food items.

There will be a teal pumpkin painting party from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, Oct. 26, at Symmetry Care, 348 W. Adams in Burns.

For more information on The Teal Pumpkin Project in our community, contact Jennifer Jenks at 541-573-8376.