Could the words “healthy” and “Halloween” actually go together? As a mom of 5 who is passionate about health I have been looking for ways to help me encourage healthy habits in my children. It may be a challenge, but I have some ideas that may help you have a healthier and educational Halloween celebration.
Try these tips with me to reduce tummy aches and cut back on sugar while engaging in the fun spirit of the holiday:
1. Take the focus off of trick-or-treating or limit the time spent collecting candy. Try planning a spooky game night or making a fall craft on the night of Halloween after a limited amount of candy collection. This way the candy will be part of the night but not the main event.
2. Make the candy collection educational. Have the kids sort them by colors and types. Counting them by twos, fives, and even tens allows them to practice math skills and slows down how quickly they might eat it.
3. Practice moderation when it comes to candy eating. Set a limit with your children and stick to it. Let them sort and choose three to five favorites. Then put the rest away for special treat times. You can make candy last all year this way!
4. Put candy out of sight and not within easy reach. If you find you have too much high-calorie candy on hand after Halloween, then do yourself a favor and put it away. Don’t leave it out where it’s easy to grab every few minutes or hours. For your sake and your kids!
5. Set the healthy example. If you want to see more healthy candy options, then be the person who offers better choices. Consider handing out small bottles of water to keep kids from being thirsty on their walk. Offer trail mix, baked chip bags or at least give out dark chocolate, a healthier option with less sugar than typical milk chocolate.
There is no reason we cannot all enjoy the holiday while continuing to inspire our kids to healthy lifestyles. So enjoy the day, get dressed up, and let these suggestions help you and your loved ones have a healthier, safe, and fun Halloween.
xo, Lauren
