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Healthier Halloween treats

Filed under: Holidays, Nutrition: Health

My husband and I share the personal opinion that we're doing our kids a favor by eating their Halloween candy at night. After all, they don't need the sugar, right? Of course, neither do we, but we don't usually acknowledge that fact while fighting over the last mini-Snickers bar.

If our neighbors start handing out treats like those suggested in this gallery from Forbes, there wouldn't be any arguments, because there wouldn't be anything good to fight over. But these treats are healthier for kids, so they're worth taking a look at. For instance, Forbes recommends avoiding:
  • sticky candy, like caramels
  • snack cakes
  • full-sized candy bars


And instead trying one of these alternatives:
  • sugar-free gum and candy
  • dark chocolate
  • chocolate-covered fruit (like raisins)
  • fruit leather or fruit bars
  • toys
  • 100-calorie snack packs
(Those alternatives won't make you the most popular parent on your block, except maybe with your family dentist.)

Three hundred and sixty four days a year, I preach and practice good nutrition. My kids only get Halloween night to go crazy on their candy, and after that, I get to dole out their treats. The bucket disappears completely after a few days. (They're young, I can get away with this.) So the candy bars and caramels don't really bother me that much for one night.

What do you think about this trend of healthier Halloween treats? Will you be doling out good-for-you goodies, or giving away the good stuff?

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AdviceMama Says:
Start by teaching him that it is safe to do so.