Teal Pumpkins Mean Understanding and Safety
October 11, 2019
Home Tips from your Local Realtor: Mark Mozingo
Halloween kicks off the holiday season and for most families, it is a fun, active time. But for some, especially the families of children with food allergies or other special healthcare needs, it requires even more of a juggling act to navigate their child’s food allergies and sensory issues while finding ways to enjoy the fun.
Researchers estimate that 5.6 million children under age 18 have food allergies, according to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). That’s one in 13 children, or roughly two in every classroom. Also, about 40 percent of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food.
In 2014, FARE launched a Teal Pumpkin Project worldwide to create a safer, happier Halloween for all children. The movement encourages homeowners to put a teal pumpkin on their porches and provide non-food treats that everyone can enjoy. Some simple suggestions include glow bracelets, stickers, pencils, bouncy balls, bookmarks or other items available at party stores or dollar stores. This simple act promotes inclusion for trick or treaters with food allergies or other conditions.
Participating is easy and can be a fun family activity. Paint a pumpkin teal, or buy one at any number of national retailers, and place it in front of your home to show you have non-food treats available. Talk to your children about food allergies and the impact they can have on other children. You can also add your home to the Teal Pumpkin Project Map at https://www.foodallergy.org/education-awareness/teal-pumpkin-project and share this effort with family and friends.
This project was inspired by a local awareness activity run by the Food Allergy Community of East Tennessee.
Every parent wants their child to be safe but also to feel included. Participating in this worldwide effort is a great way to help your children understand the dangers of food allergies while promoting acceptance and inclusion.
Looking for other home tips or have a real estate question? I’m Mark Mozingo of Keller Williams Realty, and I’m right at home helping you find the way! Contact me today at MarkMozingo.com or (803) 665-3333.
