What’s a healthy parent to do? You want to encourage your child to live life and enjoy having fun and celebrating the holidays and special occasions that are meaningful to you, but you also want to encourage healthy habits that will last a lifetime. With gifts that will promote outdoor play and regular exercise along with snack options that cut down on the sugar, you won’t have to worry about hiding candy from your kids when their next craving hits. Try out some of these healthy Easter gifts and goodies to fill your toddler’s basket this year and make the best of a fun holiday without all of the sugar—and the inevitable cranky meltdown that follows. Some ideas that will encourage your little one to move their body and play outside include:
Sidewalk chalkSand toysSunglasses (gotta keep those eyes shaded)Oversized bouncy ballVelcro catch-and-release ball toyFrisbeeToddler-sized ball and batToddler outdoor golf setKites (just make sure you’re in a clear area before launching!)Jump rope (even if your child is too young to jump, you can have them practice jumping over the rope when you place it on the ground)Ride-on toysToddler scooters
Look for versions that come with a timer, so your toddler can also practice independent brushing and learn how long they need to brush for proper teeth cleaning. Well, the answer to that is both yes and no. One treat really won’t hurt your tot. “While sugar highs and crashes are a nuisance, they don’t pose any real dangers as long as they only occur every now and again,” explains Susan Peirce Thompson, Ph.D., author of Bright Line Eating: The Science of Living Happy, Thin, and Free, in an article in The Good Men Project. However, candy can become unhealthy if you continue to offer it to your toddler on days that aren’t just special holidays. “The real danger of candy consumption is that, if not managed properly, it can set kids off down the slippery slope toward sugar addiction,” Dr. Thompson wrote. So go ahead and include a candied treat or two in your toddler’s basket. Just opt for all-natural, low-sugar candy, like a small piece of chocolate or lollipop that doesn’t include a ton of artificial ingredients, and encourage your little one to eat a balanced breakfast before indulging. (Same goes for you, parents!) And if you’re the creative type, you could even fill a clear plastic baggie with some cheddar bunny crackers and fasten with a green yarn or string at the top so the package resembles a carrot. Your toddler will love discovering a healthy treat in their basket on Easter morning.
