Kids Choose Carrots Over Candy on Halloween – See What Happened When They Got the Freedom to Decide!

In a world that often doubts young people’s ability to make sound decisions, last night’s Halloween provided a refreshingly unexpected twist. At one BiS staff member’s doorstep, trick-or-treaters encountered two bowls: one with lollies (candy) and the other, surprisingly, with carrots—and later, potatoes. The reaction? Pure delight. In the video, now shared across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, children could be heard excitedly choosing the carrots just as much as the lollies, with some even enjoying their healthy treats on the spot. By the night’s end, the carrots and potatoes were completely picked over, while a few lollies remained. This heartwarming (and humorous) scene is more than a Halloween story; it’s a bold reminder that children are fully capable of making balanced, thoughtful choices when they’re given the freedom to do so.

– Watch the video here on Instagram –

At Brisbane Independent School (BiS), this Halloween moment reflects a much larger mission: empowering students to make choices and develop independence. BiS challenges traditional educational norms by implementing programs that emphasise student autonomy, responsibility and self-discovery. Our approach combines Choice Theory through our programs of OMNI, BiStopia, and the Study of Self curriculum, positioning BIS as a leader in fostering resilient, self-directed learners in a world where these skills are needed more than ever.

Trusting Kids to Choose: A Bold Approach at BIS

Imagine an education model where children are encouraged to explore, question, and make meaningful choices daily. At BiS, we work to disrupt the traditional framework by placing decision-making power in students’ hands. Using Choice Theory as a foundation, we provide students with options that allow them to understand and own their learning experiences. Our philosophy is straightforward: students grow when they are trusted to decide.

This approach contrasts sharply with traditional education systems, where students are often required to conform rather than to make personal decisions. Research shows that high school and university students today are facing increasing challenges, from burnout to mental health struggles, due to limited autonomy in their formative years. Young people often lack resilience and struggle without guidance, leading to higher dropout rates and stress levels. BiS believes it’s time to offer an education that genuinely prepares students for life, not just exams.

OMNI, BIStopia, and Study of Self: Empowering Independence

Through programs like OMNI, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in hands-on explorations of science, technology, craft and problem-solving. OMNI projects allow them to pursue what excites them, guided by teachers who support rather than direct. In BiStopia, students engage in a role-play society, learning to run businesses, manage community roles, and even take on government responsibilities. This “real-world” practice equips them with critical skills for navigating a complex world.

The Study of Self curriculum deepens this journey, providing students with tools to reflect on their strengths, manage emotions and find purpose. At BiS, students develop what we call the “BiS Voice”—a confident, curious, and compassionate outlook. This mindset helps them make choices aligned with their values and embrace both successes and failures as growth opportunities.

A Call to Rethink Education

This Halloween story is more than just a fun video; it’s a reminder that kids are fully capable of making thoughtful choices when given the chance. At BiS, we believe in letting students  question, explore and take responsibility for their learning journeys. By embracing this model, we’re not only challenging the status quo but also preparing students for real-world challenges. So, let’s continue trusting kids to surprise us—they’re more ready than we think!