Halloween has become a nightmare for many parents that have been diligently watching their children’s sugar intake only to see it spike up in one night. However, if handled correctly the night can be a great opportunity for teaching your children about diet and excesses. Have older children help you find reasonably healthy treats that can be fun too. Here are just a few ideas on how to replace the typical sugar laden treats with choices that you and your kids may find equally tasty:
- Many grocery stores have been improving their selection of products intended for Diabetics. Most, if not all of the items available have no sugar and taste great. Switching to sugar free candies and cookies can save calories, cavities and sugar highs.
- Party stores are another fun resource for picking up inexpensive party favors that can be used in place of candy. While everyone else is giving out undistinguishable bars of chocolate, you will be known for the house with the fun games. Just be careful of the age appropriateness and do not give to children that may swallow small parts.
- Make your own candy. It is easier than you think to make candy and bake cookies that will be full of flavor and you get to control the amount of sugar.
- Allow the kids to scare up all of the candy they want, but require that they share part of their take with less fortunate kids or donate the candy to kids that couldn’t get out. Your kids would have some candy and they would learn an important lesson in generosity.
- As above, let them have it all, but require that they divide it up over several months. Staggering the treats will help them learn a valuable lesson in self control and saving for a rainy day.
Practice safety. Whether the treats are healthy or not, make sure you check all of the loot to make sure there are no surprises or items that you would not want your child to have thrown in the bag.
Remember the holiday is not just for kids, so have some fun with it too.