hALLOWeen Tips for Parents👻🎃🍬

Halloween feels like it's a time that is all about candy for children.  I don't know what is scarier for some parents, the goblins that come out at night or the sugar!  In our diet culture today, sugar has been demonized.  Well rest your soul, look at Halloween as an opportunity to allow your children to explore and expose themselves to as much candy as they want on Halloween night. This will let your child see that candy is not a big deal and eventually the novelty of the candy will dissipate.  

Before heading out to go trick-or-treating, feed your child a well-balanced meal.  (Check our website for Jack O' Lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers under Poultry or Pumpkin Black Bean Soup under Soups).  This can nourish and keep them satisfied while trick-or- treating and they can wait until they get home to eat any candy to make sure it is safe and not tampered with. When it is time for bed, remind your children to brush their teeth to prevent any cavities.

Then you ask, "What do we do with the remaining candy?"  The few days or weeks after Halloween, allow your child to choose their choice of candy and serve it with a well-balanced meal or snack.  For example, plate your child's dinner with chicken, rice, broccoli, and their candy of choice.  This will satisfy your child's sweet tooth, and at the same time, provide them more nutrients and prevent cravings for more.  It also shows your child that candy has just as much value as the other foods on their plate and that it is not a reward or something more special.

Halloween is an opportunity to teach your children balance, moderation, and an occasional indulgence.  Have a safe and Happy hALLOWeen! 👻🎃🍬