Question: If I give my children candy or sugary treats every now and then, does that make me a bad mother?
Answer: This is a question often raised by mothers all over the country. Moms who are especially vigilant in providing a healthy lifestyle for their children might feel as though they are committing a cardinal sin by giving their children a sweet treat every now and then.
The major key in such a situation as this, is moderation. It is normal for children to want a sweet treat sometimes. Even if you provide meals and snacks for your children that are natural and healthy, your children will eventually go out into the world and be socialized with children who may not eat as healthy as yours. They will likely want to try new things they see, too. If you can teach your children to intake all things in moderation, they will be much less likely to overindulge when such a time arrives.
The second point to consider is that there are healthy alternatives to sugar-laden treats. If you have been consistent in offering your children delicious fruit and sugar-free snacks, they will probably not enjoy one that is packed with sugar, simply because their taste buds have not developed to such intensive sweet flavors.
The most important thing to remember is to allow your children to try new things, but offering them similar alternatives.
