I continue to really dislike the amount of sugar kids eat in this country. Because P is the youngest in a neighborhood full of kids I’ve found it hard to abstaine from sugar all together. It was also tough not have cookies during the holidays because I feel baking is part of the season’s traditions. As I thought about what I really wanted for P and her diet I realized that moderation is the real goal.
My new strategy is to use the cookies and treats as a way to get P to eat better all around. It’s amazing how many more veggies she’s willing to try if I tell her she can have a cookie after dinner. Until Sunday, she’s been self moderating her sugar intake. She’ll eat two cookies and stop. I was proud of this self control.
Sunday she finished an entire lollipop in no time! It was her second lolli ever. Before her nap she chose to eat peaches instead of the lollipop. After her nap she got up, ran to the dining table, finished her cheese and crackers and then ate her entire lollipop! After dinner she had an awful tummy ache. I felt bad…but not too bad. She needed to feel the effects of too much sugar herself to understand.
So, that’s the deal. I’m not saying no, but I’m not saying yes all the time. I let her chose; you can have cake or candy at the party, but not both. You choose. We’ll see how this strategy develops.
