Or maybe I should say that I “surprised” her, but I like to go with “impressed”!
I took my son last week for his annual check-up and since his birthday falls close to Halloween the topic came up towards the end of our appointment. She asked him if he’d be celebrating and then asked how many pieces of candy he would be allowed to eat. Julian first looked at me a little confused then told her, “I don’t know. One. Maybe three.”
The pediatrician then turned to look at me for an answer. Suddenly caught off guard, feeling like I had done something wrong as a parent by not giving my child a clear limit of candy for Halloween, I fumbled for an answer. I explained that a year or two ago, I realized that the more I limited candy, the more my kids seemed to want it, and I was left feeling out of control and worried…
So, I decided to do with my kids, what I do with my clients. We removed the “off-limits” language around candy, put a bucket of candy that we collect from birthdays and other celebrations in the cabinet and said they could have it as they like.
Now don’t get me wrong, we had our ups and downs with this process. I know there were a couple days where one of my kids ate more than 10 pieces of candy. But it started great conversations with both kids around how too much of anything can be upsetting to our tummies.
It felt risky initially but within a month or two everything had changed. They would take a piece here and there, my daughter more regularly than my son who might only eat a piece a week! The “appeal” to the candy had dropped significantly.
And now, around holidays such as Halloween, candy is not a big deal. My kids are not super excited about trick or treating for the candy but more for getting to dress up and walk around with their friends.
The pediatrician seemed to be doubtful and maybe a little shocked but also impressed. She then said, “Wow, so candy is not a big worry in your house?” I was pleased to be able to give her a big, confident, “Nope!”
If this is something you or your family is struggling with, reach out. I would love to help!