Between Cadbury Eggs and neon-colored Peeps, children expect to see candy from the Easter bunny, but this year consider skipping the sweets. Sugary, sticky candy hangs on to the teeth long after the taste is gone.Sugar in candy combines with the bacteria in your mouth to create acids, which attack the enamel of your teeth. What tastes so great in the moment, can lead to cavities and other dental problems down the road. And if you skip the sugar in your child's basket, you might even avoid the sugar rush!
So this year, once again, consider setting aside "most" of the delectable goodies you usually put into your Easter baskets and choose some of these healthier alternatives:
- Tooth Treats
- Plak Posse Palz are soft toys with "real teeth," so kids can practice brushing and flossing on a furry friend. Kids will also enjoy a Spider Man musical toothbrush- a super hero and music for twice the fun! Or, for the princess in your life, check out a Cinderella Electric Toothbrush.
- Healthy Snacks
- Decorated hard-boiled eggs in your baskets will provide protein and energy to active kids. Or, consider some fresh, colorful fruit like kiwis, mangos, or clementines as a delicious snack. Trail mix, yogurt-to-go and cheese sticks are also healthy fare.
- Fun Stuff For Kids
- Colored chalk and bubbles are fun for kids and can occupy them for hours. Play Dough, bouncy balls and stickers are also great treats for the little ones.
- Fun Stuff For Teens
- Dried fruit or granola bars are a healthier treat. For girls, consider including gifts of nail polish, jewelry or fun accessories like lip gloss or perfume. Treat boys to a video game, book or puzzle. And of course, all teens like gift cards, ear buds or cool sunglasses.
- Sugar-free gum
- Chewing gum creates saliva that helps wash away acids in the mouth, protecting teeth from cavities. But make sure it's sugar free!
Whatever you choose for your child's Easter basket this year, keep in mind that sugary foods can be tough on your teeth. And a healthy lifestyle is a good gift to "give" every day of the year!
God Bless,
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