The Best Candies for Young Kids: Sweet Treats That Are Fun and Safe
When it comes to choosing candies for young kids, parents often face a dilemma. On one hand, everyone loves to see their little ones light up with joy when they receive a sweet treat. On the other hand, not all candies are safe or healthy for children, especially for younger ones who may still be developing good eating habits and dental care routines. The trick is to find a balance between fun, tasty options and treats that are less likely to cause problems such as choking hazards, excessive sugar intake, or poor oral health.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best candies for young kids, focusing on options that are safe, easy to eat, and healthier alternatives to the sugary treats that dominate store shelves.
1. Gummy Bears (Low-Sugar Versions)
Gummy bears are a popular choice among kids due to their fun shapes and chewy texture. However, traditional gummy bears can be loaded with sugar and artificial flavors, which aren’t ideal for a young child’s diet. Thankfully, there are low-sugar or sugar-free versions that still offer the same playful experience without the excess sugar.
Look for gummy bears made with natural fruit juices or healthier sweeteners like stevia. Some brands also fortify their gummies with vitamins, adding a small nutritional boost to snack time. Just be sure to check the label for any choking warnings if your child is very young.
2. Fruit Leathers
Fruit leathers, or fruit strips, are an excellent alternative to traditional candy. Made from pureed fruits, they offer a concentrated burst of sweetness but with the added benefits of fiber and vitamins. These chewy snacks can satisfy a sweet tooth without introducing processed sugars and artificial ingredients.
Be mindful to choose brands that have little to no added sugar, and consider cutting them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for very young children to reduce the risk of choking.
3. Dark Chocolate
While chocolate may seem like a treat reserved for older children, dark chocolate can be a healthier option even for young kids. Unlike milk chocolate, which is loaded with sugar and milk solids, dark chocolate contains antioxidants and less sugar. It’s a great option for kids who are past the toddler stage and can enjoy chocolate without it being overly sweet.
You can introduce dark chocolate in small pieces or as part of a trail mix with nuts and dried fruit for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
4. Yogurt-Covered Raisins
Yogurt-covered raisins provide the best of both worlds: the sweetness of candy combined with the nutritional benefits of raisins. Raisins are packed with iron, fiber, and natural sugars, making them a great snack for energy and digestion. The yogurt coating adds a creamy texture that kids love without being overwhelmingly sweet.
These are also easy for kids to eat and are typically less sticky than other candy options, which is a plus for parents looking to minimize mess.
5. Homemade Fruit Pops
If you’re looking for a candy-like treat that’s fresh and hydrating, homemade fruit pops are a fantastic option. You can make these popsicles using pureed fruit, coconut water, or even yogurt. Freeze them into molds, and you’ll have a cool, sweet treat that’s both healthy and fun to eat.
Since these are homemade, you control what goes into them—no artificial ingredients, preservatives, or added sugars. Plus, fruit pops are a great way to sneak more fruit into your child’s diet, and they can be customized with their favorite flavors.
6. Honey Sticks
For children over the age of one, honey sticks can be an exciting treat. These are thin tubes filled with pure honey, which kids can enjoy as a sweet and natural alternative to processed sugar candies. Honey contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties, which makes it a better choice compared to refined sugar.
Just make sure your child is at least one year old, as honey should never be given to infants due to the risk of botulism.
7. Frozen Yogurt Drops
Frozen yogurt drops are both fun and healthy, making them perfect for little kids. Simply spoon small dollops of yogurt onto a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. You can use plain yogurt sweetened with a bit of honey or maple syrup, or go for fruit-flavored varieties.
These bite-sized treats melt in your mouth and are perfect for hot days. They are also a great source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
8. Rice Krispie Treats (Made with Less Sugar)
Rice Krispie treats can be a fun and familiar candy-like snack that is easier on young teeth. The key here is to reduce the sugar content by making them at home with less sugary ingredients. Swap out some of the marshmallows for nut butter or use a small amount of honey as the sweetener.
These treats can be customized with add-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or even a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a balanced treat that retains its fun, chewy texture.
9. Chewy Fruit Snacks
Like gummy bears, chewy fruit snacks are popular with kids but often come with loads of added sugar. Look for brands that offer 100% fruit-based snacks without added sugar or artificial dyes. These are usually made from fruit purees and juices, which means they retain some of the nutrients found in whole fruits.
These snacks are typically softer and less sticky than traditional gummies, which makes them a safer option for younger children.
10. Marshmallows (in Moderation)
Marshmallows are a candy that can be enjoyed in moderation by younger kids. They are soft and easy to chew, which reduces the risk of choking. While they are mostly made of sugar, they can be a fun treat when used creatively, such as roasting them over a campfire or adding them to a healthy snack mix.
You can also find marshmallow alternatives made with lower sugar content or infused with natural flavors and colors.
Candy Tips for Parents
When offering candy to young children, it’s important to keep safety and health in mind. Here are a few general tips to ensure that candy time is enjoyable and worry-free:
- Check for choking hazards: Hard candies, gum, and sticky taffies can pose a choking risk for younger kids. Stick to soft or dissolvable candies, especially for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Limit sugary snacks: Candy should always be given in moderation. Consider reserving sugary treats for special occasions or using healthier alternatives like fruit-based snacks for daily sweet cravings.
- Encourage good dental habits: Sugary candies can be tough on young teeth. Always encourage brushing after eating sweets, and consider offering candy after a meal when saliva production is higher, helping to neutralize acids and wash away sugars.
- Opt for natural ingredients: Avoid candies that are loaded with artificial dyes, flavors, and preservatives. Many brands now offer candies made from natural ingredients, which are a better choice for growing children.
Conclusion
Candy doesn’t have to be off-limits for young kids, but it’s important to make thoughtful choices. Opt for treats that offer a bit of nutritional value and are safe for little mouths to enjoy. By choosing healthier alternatives and practicing moderation, you can keep candy time both fun and guilt-free.
Offering your child healthy candy alternatives also fosters good eating habits that will stay with them as they grow. So, whether it’s a low-sugar gummy bear, a homemade fruit pop, or a piece of dark chocolate, there’s a world of options that will delight your child while keeping their health in mind.
