Halloween is tomorrow and I already have tons of candy from all the fall activities that my kids have had this week. If you're like me and don't want to devour the candy yourself, here are a few suggestions to help curtail the candy:
1. Freeze the chocolate- Out of sight, out of mind! Chocolate is a fun treat in moderation and one way to keep it fresh, is to freeze it. Have each child pick out their favorite chocolate bars and place in a freezer bag. This way, it can last and be enjoyed over a few months. But remember, make sure there is a small bag for mom too!
2. Have a limit- Like most parenting rules, limits need to be set with candy too. I usually let my kids have a few pieces on Halloween, but then limit it to two or three pieces each day. Candy, although shouldn't be used as a mealtime bribe, can be a fun treat for a lunchtime or dinner dessert. If little hands have a hard time staying out of the candy bowl, then keep it up high and out of reach. Have older kids set their own limits and use this time as a way to instill good nutritional habits.
3. Donate- My kids often forget about the candy after a few days and this is a good time to get rid of the stuff they won't miss. I usually donate the candy to our church for the Sunday School program where the kids receive it as an occasional treat. Soup kitchen are another place where the candy would be well received as an option for dessert.
4. Next year, think of alternatives- Kids who trick-or-treat have an advantage of receiving more candy then need-be, so next year try non-candy items. Kids love stickers, temporary tattoos, mini bottles of water, pencils, juice boxes, sugar-free gum, pretzels, granola bars, and popcorn are fun alternatives to the typical junk foods and candy.
Lastly, Halloween is a wonderful time that is only once a year. If your kids indulge, it's okay and don't fret. Halloween, like most fun things in life, can be enjoyed in moderation!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
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