Sweet Kisses

How to Survive the Sugar Holidays, From Valentines Through Easter

It starts with grandparents and school and extends home – what’s the universal gift for kids for Valentines? That’s right, candy. From chocolates to conversational hearts to gummy delights, our kids are getting more than their fill of candy right now.

Most parents want to throw their hands in the air in despair. We know all that sugar isn’t good for our kids – especially for their teeth and their waistlines! – but we don’t want to be the evil ogres who take away all the candy … and all the fun!

How to Get Rid of the Candy

One of the best ways I’ve heard of to rid your household of all that excess candy is to offer your kids a deal – either so much money per piece of candy (a penny or a nickel) or offer to trade them the entire lot of candy for a toy they really want or a trip to the dollar store. That way the kids still get to have a treat, just not one that’s known to cause obesity and tooth decay.

Another option is to take control. If the grandparents like to give something for Valentine’s, ask them to give things that aren’t sweets, like small toy cars or dolls, pencils or lip balm. Not only will those gifts make them popular with the kids, they gifts will last a lot longer than candy!

Take Good Care of Their Teeth

Despite your best efforts, it’s pretty likely your kids are still going to have their fill of sugary sweets in the next couple of months. If that’s the case, be sure to check their teeth to make sure they’re brushing a full two minutes and that they’re doing a thorough enough job. Also trying make sure your kids floss daily.

In addition to good brushing habits, adding EvoraKids probiotic chews to their daily brushing habits can be a great step in the right direction!