Why It's Okay to Serve Treats With Meals — And Why It Might Actually Be Better!

When the holidays roll around — like Easter with its baskets full of chocolate eggs and jelly beans — many parents start to feel that tug-of-war between wanting their kids to enjoy the fun and worrying about sugar overload. But here’s the truth: including treats alongside meals isn’t just okay… it’s actually a powerful way to teach kids a balanced and healthy relationship with food.

The Myth of "Good" and "Bad" Foods

So often, foods get labeled as "good" or "bad." But at Swage Kids, we believe all foods fit — yes, even candy!

By presenting treats without judgment, you take the power away from them. This means they don’t become that “forbidden fruit” your kids want even more. Instead, they become just another part of the plate. And when treats are included with meals (not withheld or used as bribes), kids learn to trust their bodies and eat intuitively.

Why You Shouldn't Hide the Easter Bunny

Holidays are full of magic, joy, and yes, sugar. That’s not a bad thing. In fact, it's a perfect learning moment. When you place a few chocolate eggs on their plate next to the chicken nuggets and strawberries, you’re saying:🌟 "All foods can be enjoyed."🌟 "You get to decide what feels good to eat."

This supports what feeding experts and registered dietitians have long said — restriction leads to obsession, but inclusion leads to balance.

Give Kids the Power (Without the Pressure)

Using tools like our Picky Plate helps kids feel like they have a say in what they eat. That little "picky" section? It’s a genius way to introduce new foods — or even a special treat — while giving them control.

And our magnetic meal planner? It keeps meals stress-free and organized, even when you’re juggling chocolate bunnies and family dinners.

With a detachable grocery list, included pen, and sleek gold or black design, our planner helps bring a little calm to chaotic mealtimes — and leaves space for spontaneity (yes, even spontaneous Easter cupcakes!).

Let’s Make Peace with Food — Together

As parents, we want what’s best for our kids. But that doesn’t mean perfection. It means modeling balance, flexibility, and joy. Sometimes that looks like carrot sticks… and sometimes it looks like Cadbury Mini Eggs next to lunch.

So this Easter (and every season), give yourself permission to enjoy the treats too. 🍫

Let them be picky. Let them have choices. Let them enjoy the magic of food.