My kids have been out for the night and returned each with a big bag of candy. My wife and I are wondering the best rules for the consumption of such.
In the past we've set limits of letting them have one after each meal but I know some parents let them eat as much as they want, telling them that when it's gone, it's gone and if they get sick, to don't go complaining about it -- might as well learn lessons about over-eating at an early age.
What facts are there to support either of these two policies, or any other policy for that matter?
Follow-Up: Thanks everyone for all the information. FYI, here's what we decided:
- You can eat as much or as little as you want.
- You can only eat it directly after a healthy and balanced lunch/dinner -- not breakfast, not snacks.
- Any eating of candy outside these times will result in immediate and permanent confiscation of all remaining candy. (My son actually asked, "Will we get the bag back for next year?")
- You must brush your teeth well as soon as you're finished after which no more candy.
- When it's gone, it's gone. No asking the other if you can have some.
- If you eat so much that you get sick or a tummy-ache, don't be complaining about it -- learn from it.
Funny thing... My kids (boy=8y, girl=5y) are already talking about how they're only going to eat one or two at at time to make it last. I really love kids! <tearing up>