When it comes to Halloween it doesn’t seem fair that our children, or indeed us parents, should have to choose between fun or cavities. No one want to be the family who give out tooth brushes when the trick or treaters come knocking and, I’m pretty sure our own children would be disappointed to see a nice healthy carrot offered at a neighbours door. So what can we do to ensure fun is had but those miniature vampires, pirates and ghosts are not sent bouncing off the ceiling on all’hallows eve and consequently landing in the dentist chair?
Here are some tips for a magical Halloween: minus the toothache.
Small buckets: you can be sure that when presented with a large caldron to fill, a small child will endeavour to see it overflowing. Giving your child a suitable sized collection plate will limit the treats they’re able to collect and, may also mean you’re not walking door to door for hours, in the freezing cold, praying you’ll reach the brim before midnight.
Go at the start of the night: We’ve all been there, it’s 8pm and the knocks on the door are getting less frequent: You stand there holding a still brimming bowl of sugary goodness, there’s a final knock. And, low and behold, there stands a cute little pumpkin. You empty the entire contents into their outstretched hands, less you find yourself sucking on sweets for the next decade. Don’t be that pumpkin’s parents! People tend to be more conservative with treats at the start of the night, better to make the rounds at 2pm than risk an avalanche of leftovers.
Consider healthier alternatives: Healthy food doesn’t have to mean boring and a quick look at Pinterest reveals some truly spooky goodies for those concerned about all that sugar. In fact, parenting website netmums has the following link to some fabulously healthy spooky treats.
Try the rule of five: When you return home suggest your child choose five of their favourite items to keep, you can donate the rest, save some for Christmas or space them out for special occasions. Part of the fun is the dressing up and event itself and, by allowing your child to pick their favourite you’re not denying them any of the experience.
Use it as an opportunity to talk about good oral hygiene: Nothing like some ghoulish fun to open the lines of communication between parent and child. You can use this time to explain the importance of a good brushing routine and with all those novelty teeth growing around, you’ll even have an example or two of the consequences of dental neglect.
Here at Paul Lowe we are passionate about supporting your family’s oral health and educating not only a good brushing routine but also about advising on the best foods and drinks to offer as well as ways you can cut down your sugar intake. Why not contact us for further information
To book your child’s Consultation or regular check-up call 0121 711 2424.