The Meaning Behind the Teal Pumpkin: Simple Ways to Make Halloween Inclusive for All Kids

Have you ever spotted a teal pumpkin on someone’s porch and wondered what it means?

This small pumpkin carries a big message — one of inclusion, awareness, and care for children with food allergies, sensory sensitivities, and feeding challenges.

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I love seeing communities come together to make celebrations like Halloween accessible and safe for every child. Here’s how you can join the movement this year.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through my links — at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely recommend for supporting children’s sensory, motor, and developmental needs.

1. What Is the Teal Pumpkin Project?

The Teal Pumpkin Project, started by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), encourages families to offer non-food treats during Halloween.
A teal pumpkin on your porch signals that you have safe, inclusive options for trick-or-treaters who may not be able to enjoy traditional candy.

 2. Why It Matters

For many children, trick-or-treating can bring anxiety instead of excitement.

• Food allergies: Even small traces of allergens like peanuts, dairy, or soy can be dangerous.
• Feeding challenges or sensory sensitivities: Some children struggle with textures, tastes, or swallowing.
• Inclusive play: Every child deserves to be part of the fun without fear or exclusion.
  When we include non-food treats, we send a powerful message — you belong here. 

3. Non-Food Treat Ideas

Here are some simple, fun, and sensory-friendly options:

• Glow sticks 
• Stickers
• Temporary tattoos
• Mini bubbles
• Erasers and pencils
• Stretchy or squishy toys
  
• Small Play-Doh containers
  
• Pop Fidgets 

💡 Tip: Keep your non-food treats in a separate bowl and display a teal pumpkin or a small sign that says “Inclusive Treats for Everyone!"

4. How to Participate

1. Paint or buy a teal pumpkin — or print the official FARE sign.
2. Offer non-food treats for trick-or-treaters.
3. Share a post on social media to spread the word and encourage others.

Every teal pumpkin on a porch makes Halloween safer and more inclusive.

5. 💙 What Does a Blue Pumpkin Mean at Halloween? 💙

While teal pumpkins represent food allergy awareness, blue pumpkins have taken on a different but equally important meaning — autism awareness.
Families may display a blue pumpkin or carry a blue trick-or-treat bucket to let others know that their child may communicate or respond differently while trick-or-treating. It’s a gentle way to encourage understanding, patience, and inclusion for all children.

 5. Encouragement for Parents

If your child has food allergies, feeding challenges, or sensory differences, know that you’re not alone.

Each year, more families and neighborhoods are embracing this movement — because every child deserves to experience the magic of Halloween in a way that feels safe and joyful.

Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or neighbor, displaying a teal pumpkin is a simple way to show kindness, inclusion, and awareness.

Let’s make this Halloween one where every child can join in the fun — no matter what’s in their treat bag.

🎃 Coming soon on Faith and Function: a closer look at the Blue Pumpkin Project and how you can create a sensory-friendly Halloween for children with autism.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Alicia Clark — a mom of three, licensed pediatric occupational therapist, and founder of Faith and Function. For over 19 years, I’ve supported healthcare professionals, educators, children, and families navigating sensory processing challenges.

I’m passionate about helping families understand the “why” behind behavior and development — and creating practical, playful ways to support sensory, motor, and daily living skills at home.

💙 Follow Faith and Function on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Pinterest for more inclusive play, sensory tips, and family-centered inspiration!