Whether or not you should give your toddler candy depends on their age and the type of candy.
Generally, it's best to limit or avoid giving candy to toddlers, especially those under the age of four, due to the risk of choking and potential harm to their developing teeth.
Here's a breakdown:
-
Younger Toddlers (Under 2): It's best to avoid candy altogether. Their teeth are still developing, and they are at a higher risk of choking.
-
Older Toddlers (2-4 Years Old): If you choose to give candy, opt for options that dissolve easily, like melting candies. Avoid hard candies (lollipops, jawbreakers), sticky candies (caramels, gummy bears), and even chewing gum due to the choking hazards and potential for tooth decay.
Here's a table summarizing candy risks by age:
| Candy Type | Risk | Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Candies | Choking hazard, tooth decay | 4+ |
| Sticky Candies | Choking hazard, sticks to teeth and promotes decay | 4+ |
| Melting Candies | Less of a choking hazard, still contains sugar | 2+ |
| Chewing Gum | Choking hazard if swallowed, can stick to dental work | 5+ |
Why limit candy?
- Choking Hazard: Toddlers have small airways, making them susceptible to choking on small, hard, or sticky objects.
- Tooth Decay: The high sugar content in candy contributes to tooth decay, especially if dental hygiene isn't meticulously maintained.
- Poor Nutrition: Candy offers empty calories and can displace more nutritious foods in a toddler's diet.
- Developing Taste Preferences: Early exposure to sugary treats can lead to a preference for sweet foods later in life.
If you choose to give your toddler candy:
- Supervise them closely.
- Choose safer options like candies that dissolve quickly.
- Limit the quantity and frequency.
- Ensure they brush their teeth afterwards.
