Halloween treat bags for kids is a huge part of the celebration in the United States, especially during school activities and neighborhood trick-or-treating. As a Brazilian mom living in the U.S., I find this tradition both fascinating and adorable. In Brazil, Halloween is not widely celebrated, and kids don’t usually bring treat bags to school. However, we do have something similar: birthday party favors! Inspired by those festive little bags from Brazilian birthday parties, I’ve decided to put together some fun and creative ideas for Halloween treat bags that your kids can share at school or hand out on Halloween night.
What to Include in a Halloween Treat Bags for Kids
Creating a Halloween treat for kids can go beyond just handing out candy. The goal is to bring smiles while being thoughtful of preferences, allergies, and school rules.
Classic Candies That Are Always a Hit
Popular choices include:
- Mini KitKats
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Skittles
- M&M’s
- Twix
- HARIBO Goldbears Gummy
💡 Tip: Choose individually wrapped candies and buy them in bulk to save money.
Non-Food Treats That Kids Will Love
In many U.S. schools, especially those with food restrictions, non-edible treats are encouraged. These items are perfect for all ages and allergy-safe:
- Stickers with Halloween themes
- Slime or putty in mini containers
- Halloween pencils or erasers
- Glow sticks
- Mini coloring books or activity pads
Healthier and Allergy-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re looking for something different (and school-approved), here are healthier options:
- Fruit snacks (without added sugar)
- Pretzel packs
- Apple sauce pouches
- Popcorn bags
- Organic gummy treats
For allergy-friendly options, look for brands like:
YumEarth
Enjoy Life
MadeGood
Where to Buy or Personalize a Halloween Treat Bags for Kids
Whether you want to save time or get crafty, there are options for everyone!
Ready-to-Go Halloween Treat Bags for Kids
Stores like:
DIY Halloween Treat Bags with a Brazilian Touch
You can create custom Halloween bags using:
- Small cellophane or paper bags (available in craft stores)
- Themed ribbons or twine
- Print-at-home tags with ghost, bat, or pumpkin designs
- A small note or sticker saying “Happy Halloween”
As in Brazilian birthday parties, adding a personal note makes it feel special.
How to Make a Halloween Treat Bags for Kids Age-Appropriate
Age matters when planning the perfect Halloween treat bags for kids. Here’s a breakdown by age group:
Preschoolers
Keep it simple, colorful, and safe:
- Chunky crayons
- Halloween board books
- Puffs or toddler-safe snacks
- Soft stickers
Elementary School Kids
This group loves variety:
- Mix of candies and non-candy items
- Glow-in-the-dark bracelets
- Small puzzles or mazes
Teens (Middle and High School)
You can skip the “cute” and go with “cool”:
- Sour candies
- Mystery flavor treats
- Halloween-themed socks
- Lip balm or mini hand sanitizers
Halloween Treat Bags for Kids: Tips, Etiquette, and FAQs
Even treat bags come with a few “rules” and best practices—especially in school settings.
How Many Treat Bags Should I Prepare?
- For school: ask the teacher or count the students in the class. Always make 2–3 extras.
- For trick-or-treating: prepare at least 20–30 if you live in a busy neighborhood. You can make more in ziplock bags or reusable containers.
What If Candy Is Not Allowed at School?
Check with the school’s policy. Some schools require:
- No food items at all
- Only pre-packaged, store-bought treats
- Non-edible items only
In these cases, go with fun supplies: Halloween bookmarks, bubbles, tiny notebooks, or fun pencils.
What Should I Avoid in a Halloween Treat Bags for Kids?
- Homemade treats (usually not allowed in schools)
- Items with peanuts (high allergy risk)
- Small choking hazards (for kids under 4)
- Anything scented or potentially messy (like lotions or glitter)
Bonus: Ideas to Get Kids Involved in Making Halloween Treat Bags
Letting your kids help with the Halloween treat for kids is a fun activity that teaches creativity and thoughtfulness.
Try these:
- Let them choose which stickers or toys to include
- Have them decorate the bags with stamps or drawings
- Make a treat bag assembly line as a weekend family activity
- Practice writing their names or messages on the tags
This involvement also helps them feel more connected to school events—even if they’re new to the tradition.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: What Works Best?
Both options can be great depending on your time, budget, and creativity.
| Factor | Homemade | Store-Bought |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually cheaper | Can be expensive if custom |
| Time | Requires planning | Quick and convenient |
| Fun | Allows creativity and bonding | Less mess |
| Personalization | Very flexible | Limited unless custom ordered |
In Brazil, party favors are usually homemade or assembled with love by parents. Bringing that tradition into Halloween makes the treat bags even more meaningful.
Final Thoughts: Bridging Cultures Through Halloween Treat Bags
Living in the U.S. has shown me just how magical Halloween can be for children. From school parties to trick-or-treating nights, preparing a thoughtful Halloween treat for kids is a fun way to share joy, spark creativity, and maybe even bring a bit of Brazilian charm into the mix.
Whether you buy them ready-made or craft each one by hand, these little bags are more than just a bunch of candy—they’re tiny moments of celebration that bring smiles and laughter to little faces.
So this year, embrace the spirit of Halloween, let your kids help, and enjoy the fun of making treats that will be remembered long after the night is over.
Looking for inspiration beyond the treat bags? Don’t miss our article Best Halloween Costume Ideas for Every Family Member in 2025 to plan the perfect look for your kids.
