Happy Halloween- What to do with all that candy!

“Halloween” comes from a Celtic festival for the dead called “Samhain.” People believed the ghosts of the dead roamed Earth on this day, so people would dress in costumes and leave “treats” out on their front doors to appease the roaming spirits.

In modern time, Halloween has now turned into joyful kids running through the neighborhood in their favorite costume, saying “trick or treat”, looking for a candy surprise. Kids are ecstatic about a pillowcase full of candy and to return home to review their treasures. And yes, to devour endless amounts of candy.  All the while, parents dread the impending sugar high and looking for answers on what to do with ALL that CANDY.

This is the perfect opportunity to teach the skill of moderation.

Here are a few tips:

1. Sort through this year’s candy and have your kids select their favorites. Then offer them the chance to eat one or two pieces of candy a day or week, depending on your comfort level. This helps teach children that it’s okay to have treats in moderation. It’s only problematic when they’re eating too many treats. This same idea works for adults!
2. Another great idea is to take the extra candy and donate it.  You can send it to a children’s hospital, Ronald McDonald House, or other children-centric centers.  Let’s not forget about the military!  You can send in a care package to people in the military. Check out Support Our Troops for more information on how to.
3. If nothing else is in the cards, you can put them in the freezer for Christmas or Easter.