Halloween Treats

Trick or Treating is less that a week away and I usually buy a ton of candy for the kids that come knocking on my door expecting treats. While I will still buy some candy, I think this year I will add toy treats to my pile of sweets. I am troubled that there are so many children with allergies who can't have candy and it's really not good for them anyway. I think these little toy treats are the perfect alternatives to candy.

The best places I have found for these kind of treats are Party City and Michael's. They have cute AND cheap treats that are kids love -- some of them are even useful. Things like these little pads above. These came from Michael's and right now, you can get coupons from their website. There are also coupons in the paper each week. Michael's treats are a little more expensive but they can be charming.

 Halloween pencils are perfect. These from Party City are twelve for $1.99.

Cute pumpkin bookmarks are useful, too.

 I've seen plenty of spider rings and kids love them. I'll bet they would really love bat rings, too.

And my favorite, eye ball ping pong ball. Who wouldn't like those?

Both stores have some great partyware, too. I bought these Friendly Spooks party plates, napkins and cups from Party City. It is on sale right now for 50 percent off and perfect for a child's Halloween party. You can also find coupons for $10 off the first $50, $20 off $75 and $30 off $100.

They also have games, pumpkin carving supplies, costumes, pumpkin pinatas and my favorite, balloons. Party City has the best helium balloons. Best of all everything Halloween is 50 perfect off. These stores make celebrating affordable if you can take advantage of the sales.