Easter is just days away, and if you’re like me, you’ve struggled over what to put in the Easter basket this year. We are all tempted by the colorful presentations and the huge candy assortments we see in the stores, but too much of a good thing can be a very bad thing for our dental and overall health. Sugar and candy in moderation followed by good oral hygiene is perfectly fine. The problem is that many of us don’t seem to know what the word moderation means. Moderation, as defined in the dictionary, is the quality of being moderate; restraint; avoidance of extremes or excesses; temperance. However, Americans spend more than $1.5 billion on Easter candy each year, second only to the $1.77 billion spent on Halloween! These are frightening figures!
This year, I am looking for healthier alternatives for my family. The level of change you are willing to make is up to you, but in my mind, any change toward healthier options will be helpful. Personally, I will still give my children a bit of the sugary treats they look forward to, but I will also replace some of those treats with healthier options.
Let’s look at the serving or portion sizes. One great way to limit excessive amounts of candy in the basket is to fill the pretty plastic eggs with a serving of sweets that suits you. Individually wrapped items are good, too. Choose only a few of your child’s favorite candies in small portions and then fill the rest of the basket with healthier options. Again, the level of nutrition is your decision. Some may choose only organic treats, with nuts and trail mixes, while others will lean toward graham crackers and fruit snacks. I’ve included a list of ideas below (edible and non-edible options) that may be helpful.
Edible
Dark chocolate, Fruit snacks, Fruit, Chocolate covered fruit( chocolate covered strawberries…YUM!), Single serve mandarin orange/Fruit cups, Nuts, Goldfish crackers, Graham crackers, Cheese sticks, Granola, Trail mix…
Non-Edible
Sidewalk chalk in Easter shapes, crafts, small toys (that encourage exercise), gift cards for their favorite restaurant, nail polish, costume jewelry, dvd’s, toothbrush/floss, bath crayons/paints, art supplies, sign up coupon for classes (art, dance, music, drama, etc.), bubbles….
I welcome you to make suggestions if you think of some great ideas I might have missed. I hope these help you to make this year’s Easter basket one you can feel good about. Have a blessed and Happy Easter!!
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