What's a dentist to do during Halloween? No clinician wants to contribute to the childhood caries epidemic, or worse, be accused of contributing to their own market. However, being the "toothbrush" house on the block isn't fun either. Never fear – Incisor's top seven candy alternatives will keep you in favor with the neighborhood kids (and their parents).
- Pocket coloring books
Coloring books are a great non-candy giveaway, especially if you have a selection for kids to choose from. Parents will appreciate a quiet activity for their children to do, and kids will love getting to color their favorite characters. - Fun markers and pens
Glitter gel, color-changing and scented markers are fun to show off at school and create with. Just make sure they're reasonably washable for the sake of the parents. Pair this with a pencil case printed with your practice name, logo and phone number, and you've got a recipe for success! - Novelty toothpaste
The one dental-related item that may not come across as completely lame is unusual toothpastes. Cupcake, bacon and pickle flavors can produce laughs and playful dares. There are also novelty caps shaped like animal heads and more. - Puzzles and table games
Stand out by offering brain-teasers, dice games and travel-sized board games. Puzzles and games help pass the time during car rides and restaurant waits, ensuring the fun will last long after the Halloween candy has all been eaten. - Airplanes and helicopters
For older children, consider picking up some glider kits, (the ones you punch out of a card) or the little helicopter toys that are spun between the hands until they lift off. Sometimes it's possible to get these personalized, so don’t forget to include your practice name and phone number! - "Fidget" toys
Bouncy balls, yo-yos and jacks give kids a great opportunity to fiddle with something to channel excess energy, and get them off the screen and out into the world. - Gift cards to the bookstore or cinema
Support local businesses and give kids a fun reason to visit the bookstore for a paperback or picture book. Movie theaters often have discount tickets available for bulk purchase, and can be a fun prize as well.
After the holiday is over, consider participating in a "candy buyback program" that exchanges Halloween candy for prizes. The candy is then usually mailed to military personnel overseas.
The information contained in this, or any case study post in Incisor should never be considered a proper replacement for necessary training and/or education regarding adult oral conscious sedation. Regulations regarding sedation vary by state. This is an educational and informational piece. DOCS Education accepts no liability whatsoever for any damages resulting from any direct or indirect recipient's use of or failure to use any of the information contained herein. DOCS Education would be happy to answer any questions or concerns mailed to us at 106 Lenora Street, Seattle, WA 98121. Please print a copy of this posting and include it with your question or request.
