[Elle]

Our 3yo boy has asthma and our 2yo girl has ecsma, both are triggered by the consumption of preservatives and artificial colors and flavors. (These can also cause hyperactivity and other behavioural issues). We have decided to keep the kids away from this kind of thing unless it's a very special occassion and even then it is in moderation.

Is this unfair on them and their childhood, especially when they're around their cousins and other kids?

[Jezza]

I work with young kids and it makes the biggest difference in their attitude, concentration and even their moods when they've had cake or candy. The worst is little ones who drink Coke, it's just not good for them.

[Hamster]

Man, if I found out that someone had served my kid coke I would go nuts!

Ok, I think that sugar and candy in moderation is fine. Moreover, I think that keeping these things from a kid is more likely to make them go nuts on them when allowed. I think little amounts are fine and likely to help them learn control.

[jason]

Our daughter has candy, but not soda. We rarely keep soda in the house anymore. Candy is used as a treat usually. We do have ice cream about once a week though. We walk down to a little ice cream shop and get some there.

[WhiteWolf]

Wow Elle that has got to be hard! I imagine it is difficult when other kids around them are eating all that junk. I try to limit the amount of junk that my kids eat by offering them "good" snacks like raw veggies and dip. I also eat healthy to show them by example.

[cero]

I can understand in your situation why its best not to, but thats not to say that most kids can not have some candies, just have them in moderation. No kid (of any age, or adult really) should go on a sugar spree, its just not healthy.

[Hamster]

Agreed. They get sugared up, get hyper and giggly and then crash. I've seen it happen just this weekend in fact when my daughter got given Easter candy at a family member's house. Poor thing was in floods of tears when she came down suddenly.

[Elle]

Thanks guys, good to know I'm not the only one. I do give them sweet treats every now and then especialy when it is a party or a special occasion. Except for the eczema break-outs (which are usually caused by bright orange artificially coloured chips), I think anything in moderation is ok- except Coke!

I think people are becoming more aware, now with all the food allergies and intolerances we are seeing more and more.

[DIYGal]

If it's a health risk then I don't think it's unfair to not give them sweets.

If there are no health risks, I say let the kids have sweets. You could be doing more damage by not giving them sweets 'periodically' than keeping them away all together. It's all about balance.

[Bella]

Barring medical issues, I think into every life a little treat must fall. There's a lot to be said about teaching them moderation from a young age. Surprising them with the occasional trip to the ice cream parlor in the summer, putting small amounts of candy in their Easter baskets, rationing the Halloween candy, etc. If it's something they get all the time then it's not really a treat.