Office of Medical Communications

Lewis First, M.D., M.S., professor and chair of pediatrics

(OCTOBER 29, 2023) Lewis First, M.D., M.S., professor and chair of pediatrics at Larner College of Medicine and chief of pediatrics at the UVM Medical Center, was interviewed by ABC22 for a story on trick or treating. Inclusivity—for kids with allergies or special needs—is one consideration health experts are highlighting.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 13 children have food allergies, which can make trick or treating potentially harmful for some kids. Dr. First said his rule of thumb is “no eating until you’re done trick-or-treating.” He recommends you inspect your kid’s candy and double-check ingredients if your child has a food allergy. “A great idea for families is to limit the number of houses the families will be trick or treating to with a child who is food allergic and even offer to place goodie bags in that house,” he said.

If your child has developmental challenges, they may react differently to light and noises. First said finding an alternative way to celebrate Halloween other than trick or treating is his best suggestion.