Don’t let your toddler get sugared out this holiday season

During the holidays, family and friends often bring tons of sugary sweets with them to your house. Parties contribute to the sugar madness, too. Kids are all too often allowed to eat more sweets than they normally would. This year, don’t let your toddler get sugared out. 

- Limit the amount of sweets she is allowed. Set a limit and don’t go over it, for any reason at all. Set the boundary then stick to it.  

- Don’t let family members step over your boundary. Family members always think it’s cute to pump your kids full of sugary treats then watch them bounce around the house. This year, decide to teach your family to respect your boundaries. Tell them your toddler can’t have extra sweets and see to it that they don’t sneak them any. 

- Use a sugar substitute. If at all possible, use sugar substitutes to sweeten your toddler’s drinks or sweets. If you have to, make your own sweet treats for all the kiddies and use a sugar substitute. This way, you know there will be something there for the kids that won’t be full of sugar. 

- Keep fresh fruit available. Toddlers love fresh fruit and will most likely take this over cookies any day of the week. Stock up on a good variety of fresh fruit. Place a pretty bowl on your table or bar and fill it with all kinds of fruit. Make a fruit tray with peeled and sliced fruit. Keep it available and handy so that you can just grab it and give it to your toddler.