Americans are projected to spend $1.89 billion on Halloween candy in 2009, according to research firm IBISWorld. With numbers like that, kids could be sugar-buzzed until next spring.
A survey from the National Retail Federation (NRF) shows the average consumer plans to spend $17.99 on candy this year. IBISWorld predicts families will spend about $22.50 on candy.
No matter what the actual sales figures, trick-or-treaters come home with pounds of sugar in their sacks every year. Before the bellyaches kick in and the dentist's bills arrive, set up a plan to take charge of the Halloween candy without spoiling your children's night.
Photo © Apryl Duncan
If you're worried about the kids thinking you're Franken-mom for souring the free candy buzz, put a completely new twist on Halloween. Try trick or treating alternatives that take the emphasis off how many houses the kids can hit up for candy before it's time to go home.
Getting ready now is a lot easier than trying to peel your children off the ceiling after they sample everything in their candy bags. With a simple strategy, you can sweeten the Halloween fun without giving kids unlimited admission to Sugarfest 2009.