With Halloween around the corner comes the dreaded “sugar rush” our children experience (as well as adults who sneak into the treat bags.) Too much sugar isn’t good for anyone. It can lead to cavities, obesity, diabetes, behavioral issues and much more.
Schools host multiple “Halloween Parties” and you can find several “Trunk or Treats” and fall festivals around town. While these events mean well and are fun, they offer a LOT of sugar. Chocolate, candies, suckers, ice-cream, pizza, snow-cones, cotton candy etc. I think kids can enjoy the season of candy and treats but in moderation or even better, supplementation.
Of course your child doesn’t want to be the only one snacking on apple slices while the other kids are munching on Reese Cups – but you can make treats more appealing and their friends will be wishing they could munch on what they are snacking on.
Frozen Chocolate Drizzled Bananas
You will find this treat packed full of potassium instead of refined sugar. These frozen treats drizzled with a small amount of chocolate will satisfy your child’s sweet tooth (parents too)
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are naturally loaded with healthy goodness. Magnesium, Potassium, Fiber, Protein are just a few to throw out at you.
Yogurt Covered Raisins and Pretzels
What a perfect “sweet” snack. To add fall colors to this snack you can throw in some dried fruit – mango, apricots, cranberries etc. This is the perfect blend to take to the Halloween party at school
Jack-o-Jello
These little “Jack-o-Jellos” are an appealing way to snack during the Halloween season. Your older kiddos could help you design the faces on these “bowls”. If your child doesn’t like Jello, you could fill with yogurt or pudding.
Pumpkin Oat Balls
These little critters are packed full of goodness. Oats, walnuts, chocolate, flax seeds, pumpkin and cinnamon. They are a great alternative to cookies or brownies.
There are many alternatives out there for this holiday season – so be creative and enjoy them with your children. Pinterest has literally hundreds of yummy “healthy choices” for you to create. Help make healthy options appeal to your child and before you know it, they will make the right choices – on their own.
Healthy Choices for Halloween
Jessica Fox, Contributor
Carolina Pediatric Therapy © October 2014
