Hopkins County | Extension
Halloween is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you have to be spooked by the sweets your child will be consuming. With preparation and help from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s “Dinner Tonight,” you can ensure your child makes smart, healthy choices this Halloween.
The holidays are a perfect time to have valuable teaching lessons with your child about the importance of eating in moderation and what can happen if you consume too many sweets. Explain to your child the candy they receive while trick or treating does not have to be eaten all at once and can be spread out over time. Rather than keeping all the candy, you can also have your child pick out their personal favorites and then donate the rest to put in a care package to be sent to those serving our country overseas.
Not all Halloween treats have to be candy either and instead offer something that provides health benefits and has nutritional value. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends mixing in healthy alternatives in your candy bowl that are full of whole grains, vitamins, 100% fruit juice and fiber. Below are some examples you can find at your local grocery store:
• Whole-grain cheddar-flavored crackers
• Fruit snacks made with 100% fruit with added vitamin C
• Fruit leathers made with 100% fruit
• Sugar-free gum
• Animal crackers made without trans fat
• Mini rice cereal bars
• Cereal bars made with real fruit
• Individual fruit cups
• Mini 100% fruit juice boxes
• Low-fat pudding
• Mini bags of pretzels
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics also recommends avoiding snacks that contain nuts in case a child suffers from food allergies. In such circumstances, non-food treats such as pencils, erasers, stickers, or tattoos can act as a fun alternative.
For a fun family and friends gathering, get creative by making a jack-o-lantern out of cantaloupe, kiwi and blackberries or a skeleton out of veggies and a low-fat dip.
CHRISTMAS JOYS HOLIDAY PROGRAM
This popular program will take place Monday, Nov. 4 at the Southwest Dairy Museum in Sulphur Springs. Two sessions are being held to accommodate everyone. The 1:30 p.m. session is full, but we have started a waiting list. As of this writing, 10 seats remain for the 5:30 p.m. session. We must have a name and phone number for each seat reserved. Cost is $5, payable at the door, which covers goody bags and a booklet of all recipes and instructions for ideas demonstrated. The Southwest Dairy Museum staff prepares a lovely array of cheeses, spreads, dips, chips, crackers and fruit for refreshments. Please call the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office to reserve seats at 903-885-3443.
CLOSING THOUGHT
“If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.” – Bill Gates