There isn’t just one right answer. Instead, use your best judgment based on your child’s personality and eating habits. Kids who generally eat just a couple of pieces and save the rest might be trusted to decide how much to eat. But if your child tends to overdo it, consider setting limits.
Here as some simple tips for handling Easter treats:
- Before kids go on an egg hunt or a spring party, try to serve a healthy meal so they’re not hungry when the candy starts coming in.
- Know how much candy your child has collected and don’t store it in his or her bedroom. Having it so handy can be an irresistible temptation for many kids.
- Consider being somewhat lenient about candy during such celebrations, within reason, and talk about how the rest of the candy will be handled. Candy and snacks shouldn’t get in the way of kids eating healthy meals.
- If you’d like to reduce the candy stash — consider donating some or all of the remaining candy. Many fire and police stations love donations of food and candy.
- Be a role model by eating candy in moderation yourself. To help avoid temptation, buy your candy at the last minute and get rid of any leftovers.
- Encourage your kids to be mindful of the amount of candy and snacks eaten — and to stop before they feel full or sick.
Source: KidsHealth.org