Switch Witch to the rescue (with download).
Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 3:02PM
A few years ago a friend passed on a great tip on how to manage all of the candy that your kids haul in from trick or treating.
Enter the Switch Witch.
Switch Witch is a very kind witch (we don't like things too dark or scary here) who comes by after Halloween to take away extra candy and instead leaves a more sensible goodie. The beauty of the Switch Witch is you get to decide everything about her. Unlike the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, etc., your kids have probably never heard of her, which is awesome! Because it means you are not hemmed in by any preconceived notions or expectations--how fantastic, right? It's fun to make your own tradition. Here's what we do.
The boys come in after a fun night of trick or treating, their bags holding an impossible amount of candy. We dump and check the loot and they get to eat a few pieces on the spot. Then we take out some reasonable-sized containers (we decorate empty plastic peanut butter jars) and they fill them with whatever candy they choose (to be consumed later per some house rules). I try not to candy-shame them into picking what I consider the "good stuff"--but it's hard (because in what universe does a roll of Smarties trump any candy made with real chocolate?).
The rest of the candy is set out for the Switch Witch, who takes the candy and leaves a non-candy treat. In years past we've done books or small toys. This year I found some nifty rotating toothbrushes that the boys wanted--I figured a toothbrush "toy" would be a perfect switch for candy!
It wasn't until last year that either of the boys asked what happened to all of the candy. I told them she takes it to others to share (I left out that the "others" were my then-officemates). This year the loot is headed to my husband's office.
Here is a printable I made up--we like the Switch Witch to leave a little note. I tried to make her look like a funny, happy, witch, not to mention sensible--she never forgets her scarf because it's chilly whizzing about on a broom. I have no idea what I'm doing with graphic software, but it'll work for our family. Be sure to check out other tips at We Are THAT Family's Works for me Wednesday.
Halloween, printable, works for me Wednesday | in my life 
Reader Comments (9)
That's a cute idea. =)
how clever!! But is it wrong to want to keep it in the house for myself?
what a great idea I love it.
came from tip junkie. I think this is a fab idea. Thanks for sharing.
This is SO Smart! I've got to remember this!
We have done this for the past 2 years but never knew it was called "switch witch"! LOL I think that this is a fabulous idea b/c then we don't have so much candy laying around! I have to think of a 'prize' for this year!
Edited by Sandra: I'm going to leave up this comment even though it's technically spam, with the caveat that I've not read this book. I never even knew it existed (never googled it)! So in case anyone wants a book, here you go...
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A book about her :
https://www.createspace.com/3397655;jsessionid=D622DBE98CBC0A36A6AF90BD43AA8EDC.cspworker01
Mrs. Switch is no ordinary witch. She has the power to create a healthier Halloween that boys and girls look forward to each year. Come and read how a little boy named Gavin learned about this special magic--the magic of the Switch Witch.
Read the legend/myth and create a Halloween tradition in your home. Your kids will love to see it in print and read the story over and over. The Switch Witch fosters creativity and healthier living.
Wow ! The Halloween costumes shared in your blog are fantastic. I like the toga couple costume. Its so simple and attractive. Thanks for costumes.
Thank you for the simple, free, printable image for the note. We definitely avoid color and HFCS present in most candy, so this is a great way to have fun, enjoy a few bites, and move on into November. BTW, the image is so far to the left, I lose the S when printed on my Canon printer. Thanks again!