Hippity hop, hippity hop, the Easter bunny’s on his way. It doesn’t seem to matter when Easter falls on the calendar, earlier and earlier every year store aisles are lined with tempting chocolate and sugary snacks. Now I love mini eggs as much as the next person, but as we dye and decorate eggs, pull out our seasonal décor and get ready to welcome the Easter bunny, we should also pay attention to what the furry fella will be putting in our wee one’s baskets.
Sugar may taste good (OK, OK, it DOES taste delicious) but it certainly doesn’t do your or your fami
ly’s health or sleep habits any good. These empty calories take up valuable real estate in our tots’ tummies that could be filled with healthier options to fuel their growth and brain development.
No, we’re not advocating you wrap up some carrots and celery and try to pass them off as an Easter
treat (let’s be real…), we’re suggesting that perhaps you try your hand at baking some homemade goodies, switch up the usual store-bought suspects for a somewhat healthier alternative and whatever you do, make sure the treats are hidden away in the hours before bedtime.
With a little extra planning and time spent in the kitchen, we guarantee that you can whip up some Easter treats that won’t leave you feeling guilty or your kids drained post sugar high. A quick search on Pinterest reveals a bevy of scrumptious snacks sure to fool even the pickiest toddler. Our personal favourites:
- Oatmeal Energy Bites
- Cheerio Peanut Butter Bars
- Homemade “Fruit to Go” (for the more adventurous)
- Frozen Fruit Yogurt Pops
- Homemade Peanut Butter Eggs (a healthier take on the REESE’S variety)
There are many different varieties and substitutes, so feel free to play around with recipes – make them your own! Not much of a baker? Try keeping an eye out for treats made with real dark chocolate or cacao nibs as primary ingredients, sneak in some chocolate covered fruit, or go for individually wrapped candies and tre
ats to promote portion control.
And most importantly, when the Easter bunny leaves after a day filled with running around, hunting for eggs and over indulging, make sure to stash the sugar and cut off your kidlets a few hours before bedtime. Sweet dreams and happy egg hunting!
For more kid-friendly recipes, visit: www.popsugar.com/Kid-Friendly-