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Parentpedia
Sweets for Toddlers
What Experts Say
Most toddlers are attracted to sweets like bees to honey. But even though your tot will reach for the candy, ice cream, jam, and even the sugar packets (you suddenly realize he's quiet at the restaurant because he's somehow managed to suck through the packet and is eating the sugar), experts agree that it's best to limit sweets as much as possible.
Too much sugar can negatively affect many children, causing them to be hyperactive and have mood swings. And, it's not just sugar in food; don't forget about sweet drinks. According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, too much sugar in soda leads to childhood obesity, tooth decay, and calcium deficit (because kids who drink soda aren't drinking milk).
Ruth Yaron, author of the bestselling book "Super Baby Food," suggests parents not only avoid sweets for their toddlers but that they also read ingredients carefully and stay away from canned and packaged food with a high sugar content. Whenever possible Yaron says you should offer your toddler a variety of healthy foods and snacks like fruits and vegetables, whole grain crackers, and hard-boiled eggs instead of candy.
Safety Note
If you do allow your child some sweets, never give a toddler hard candy as it is a choking hazard.
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