Sugar Crash: What To Do With All That Halloween Candy
When it comes to Halloween candy, too much of a good thing is no treat. After the holiday, ongoing sugar overload can mean overexcited kids, empty calories and a much higher risk for tooth decay.
Here are some ways to manage that seasonal excess of candy in your house (without hiding it and eating it yourself!):
- Organize a donation to those who serve. With candy, say “thank you” to those who protect our country! Operation Gratitude collects and donates sweet treats for deployed troops and first responders. Learn more at Candy Buy Back or Operation Gratitude
- Invite the “Candy Swap Fairy” for a visit. A cousin of the Tooth Fairy (who is interested in protecting your little one’s teeth!), the Candy Swap Fairy leaves a prize in exchange for your child’s leftover candy. Discuss what your child might want in exchange for all that candy and have them select a few candies to keep. The gift doesn’t have to be big or expensive, but it should be something fun that your child would like to have. The night or two after Halloween, the Candy Swap Fairy can visit and leave a gift in exchange for sweets. Your child’s dentist will approve!
- Bake a batch of “Mystery Bars” or cookies to share. Use candy pieces in place of chocolate chips in a recipe for bars or cookies. Have kids help with deciding which candies make the “cut” for including in the Mystery Bars or cookies, and discard the rest. Chop candy into small pieces to include — no more than two cups for a batch of cookies — and have children help with measuring and stirring. Share with friends and family.
