What’s the best way to make sure your child doesn’t over-indulge in Easter chocolate?
Fraser Health, which covers the territory from Burnaby to Hope and surrounding area, has issued some advice for families as Easter weekend approaches.
A press release from the health authority says Easter egg hunts are an opportunity to support children in developing a “positive relationship with food” by not treating chocolate or candy as something special or using it as a reward.
Public health dietitians support a concept known as “the division of responsibility.” As the release notes: “The adult decides the what, when, and where of meals and snacks, and the child decides how much and whether to eat. The adult decides when to let them have the chocolate or candy and the child decides how much.”
Yes, you read that right: You should let your child decide how much chocolate or candy to eat.
And why is that?
Here are Fraser Health’s arguments in favour of the approach:
- There is no “right” amount, with the goal being to teach everyone to be able to regulate themselves.
- Managing or depriving children of sweets, like chocolate or candy, makes them want them even more, as they become “forbidden foods.” The thinking is, when children view chocolate and candy as simply another food that will be available in the future, the novelty will soon wear off.
Of course, you should still worry about your children’s tooth brushing.
Oral care is important after the consumption of the sweet treats, Fraser Health stresses. Parental responsibility includes providing help with oral care, and parents will need to help with brushing until they are at least eight years old.
In a nutshell: Tips for parents for Easter chocolate consumption
- Continue to offer regular meals and snacks in addition to any chocolate or candy that is offered.
- Offer chocolate and candy without any strings attached, i.e. not as a reward or a bargaining tool.
- Take a neutral stance by not labelling chocolate or candy as bad food, as this creates added desire.
- Remember to brush your child’s teeth for them in the morning and before they go to bed with fluoride toothpaste.
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