Halloween is filled with candy! Kids come away with candy from it seems like everywhere. As a parent, you might be wondering what to do with all that leftover candy your kids collect in the month of October. Depending on how many Halloween events you go to or where you trick-or-treat, you may find yourself drowning in candy! 

If you are in the Sioux Falls Area, make sure to check out all the area Halloween events on our Halloween Eventss page!

Here are some ideas to help you make the most of it:

Donate it

Many charities and organizations accept candy donations. Look for local organizations that support children, hospitals, or troops overseas. This way, your kids can enjoy the fun of collecting candy, and you can teach them the value of giving back to their community.

The group Solider’s Angels runs a Treats for Troops program each year. There are drop-off locations all over the country where you can donate your Halloween Candy to soldiers serving around the world. You can also regisiter to be a drop-off site for candy! Check out their website for more information about this great program.

Save it for Later

Halloween candy can last for several months if stored properly. Consider creating a candy jar or container where your kids can dip into their stash throughout the year. A candy stash can also help limit the amount of sugary sweets consumed all at once! 

Child picking out a toy
Trade it for a toy!

Trade it in for Something Else

If you have too much candy, have your kiddos “trade” it in! You can create a “candy store” at home where they can exchange their candy for toys or experiences.

Use it for Baking

Halloween candy can be a fun addition in the kitchen! Use leftover candy in baked goods like cookies, brownies, and cakes. Get creative in the kitchen and have your kids help you make some delicious treats.

Check out this recipe for a Candy Cookie Bar, a great use of some Halloween chocolate bars! 

Bring it to Holiday Events

With so many get-togethers planned around the upcoming holidays, it’s the perfect time to share! Bring a big bowl of Halloween candy to family Thanksgiving for everyone to enjoy. It can be surprising how satisfying it is for kids when they get to contribute to a meal, too! 

Using these ideas, you can make Halloween candy a fun and enjoyable experience for your kids while teaching them valuable lessons about sharing, moderation, and creativity.