First it was Halloween candy and now it is holiday goodies. At this time of year, young children are surrounded by sweet treats. As an early childhood educator or parent, you can play a role in providing children a healthy food environment during this season of holiday treats.

It is important to remember sweet treats do not need to be completely eliminated. The key is moderation. You can decrease the number of sweet treats offered to young children without them even knowing it.

1. Downsize portions – if you are serving candy, cookies, bars or other sweet treats at an event, choose small portion sizes. For example, mini-size candy bars, small cookies  or bars cut  into smaller pieces.
2. Serve water instead of pop or other sweetened beverages – Young children usually do not notice they are not getting a sweetened beverage. They are happy to have something to drink. You may be surprised how many adults might ask why water is being served instead of a sweetened beverage!
3. Focus on fruit – Add fruit such as apples or oranges to “goodie bags”. Children will probably be more excited about the mini-candy bar in the bag, but they will certainly enjoy the fruit later and parents will appreciate having less candy in the house.
4. Start with a balanced meal – Children should eat a good meal before going to events where sweet treats will be served.  If children come to an event hungry, they may eat too many sweet treats. As an educator, you may want to include a reminder for parents to feed children prior to coming.
5. Don’t be afraid to be different – Bring clementine oranges, apple slices or veggie sticks instead of a plate of cookies or bars to a holiday event. You will be surprised how quickly they disappear!

Following these simple tips will allow children to enjoy the sweet traditions of the season, while still decreasing intake of added sugars. These tips work great for adults too!  Happy Holidays!

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Mary Schroeder works for the University of Minnesota Extension which helps to connect community needs with University of Minnesota resources.  Specifically the Health and Nutrition programs and resources focus on disease & obesity prevention, healthy school environments, and continuing education for community professionals.  You can link to the Extension Health and Nutrition website at:  http://www.extension.umn.edu/health/