Top Ten Treats: Candy Kids Crave (and Parents Don't Mind!)

Sugarplums and candy canes dancing in your head? We all know the holiday season is synonymous with sweet treats, and for kids, it's a sugar-fueled wonderland. But with aisles bursting with colorful temptations, choosing the right candy can be a sticky situation. Fear not, candy connoisseurs! We've compiled the ultimate list of the Top Ten Children's Candies, guaranteed to satisfy little taste buds and bring a smile to grown-up faces too.

1. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups: The undisputed champion, the perfect marriage of creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate, these bite-sized treasures are a classic for good reason. They come in fun sizes for sharing (or not!), and even in peanut-free options for inclusive indulgence.

2. M&M's: These colorful candy buttons are more than just a crunchy snack. With their vibrant hues and endless flavor variations (think pretzel, peanut, and caramel!), they spark creativity and imagination. Plus, they're perfect for portion control, making them a parent-approved pick.

3. Sour Patch Kids: Pucker up! These sour-then-sweet gummy wonders are a rollercoaster for taste buds. Watch faces transform from puckered to beaming with each chewy bite. Be warned, though, these addictive treats might trigger a sugar rush, so enjoy responsibly!

4. Skittles: A rainbow in your pocket, Skittles are a fruity explosion of flavor. Each bite bursts with a different taste, keeping kids guessing and coming back for more. Plus, the fun shapes and vibrant colors make them a visually appealing treat.

5. Starburst: Chewy squares of fruit perfection, Starbursts offer a variety of flavors that cater to every palate. From the classic strawberry and orange to the more adventurous watermelon and mango, there's a Starburst for everyone. Bonus points for the fun wrappers that can be transformed into paper airplanes!

6. Kit Kats: The satisfyingly crispy wafer break covered in smooth milk chocolate is a recipe for pure joy. Kit Kats are perfect for sharing (though breaking them evenly can be a test of sibling diplomacy!), and their fun finger-length size makes them ideal for on-the-go snacking.

7. Hershey's Kisses: These little milk chocolate morsels are a timeless treat that never goes out of style. Wrapped in their iconic silver foil, they're perfect for popping in your mouth or melting into a warm mug of cocoa for a cozy holiday indulgence.

8. Tootsie Pops: The lollipop with a surprise! Who doesn't love the anticipation of licking their way through the candy shell to discover the yummy tootsie roll center? Tootsie Pops come in a variety of flavors, from classic cherry and grape to adventurous watermelon and chocolate.

9. Gummy Bears: These bouncy, chewy treats are a classic for a reason. They come in a rainbow of colors and flavors, and their playful shapes are perfect for imaginative play. Plus, gummy bears are a good source of gelatin, making them a slightly more nutritious option than some other candies.

10. Twizzlers: These twisted licorice treats come in a variety of flavors and sizes, from bite-sized Nibblers to the classic Pull & Peel. They're perfect for sharing, building candy towers, or simply enjoying a chewy, licorice-y treat.

Remember, moderation is key when it comes to candy consumption. But during the holiday season, a little indulgence is part of the fun. So, grab your little ones, head to the candy aisle, and let the sugarplums dance! Just remember, brushing those pearly whites is still important after all that sweetness.

Bonus Tips for Parents:

Look for healthier alternatives: Opt for dark chocolate, fruit-flavored candies, or yogurt-covered treats.

Set candy limits: Establish clear guidelines about how much candy your kids can have each day or week.

Get creative: Make your own candy with your kids! It's a fun activity that teaches them about cooking and portion control.

Focus on quality: Choose candies with fewer artificial ingredients and preservatives.

Happy holidays, and happy candy-ing!