Having candy in the house long past Halloween can contribute to unhealthy snacking habits, so it’s best to only offer this treat in moderation. Avoid an extra trip to the dentist by clearing leftover candy out of the house with the following three methods.

How to Get Rid of Leftover Halloween Candy

1. Use for At-Home Problem-Solving

When figuring out addition, subtraction, or fractions, your child can use candy to help them visually understand the problems. Have them open a pack of loose candies and use the pieces as counters that they can move around. Once the work is complete, throw away the used candy.

2. Support the Troops

Several organizations put together care packages for soldiers across the seas. During Halloween, they’ll collect leftover Halloween candy to send to the troops, providing a taste of home from thousands of miles away. Find out if your child’s school does a collection drive. For families looking to collect and donate candy on their own, several programs are available, including Operation Gratitude, Soldiers’ Angels, and Operation Shoebox. 

3. Trade-In Program

Set up a trade-in program at home that allows your child to “buy” goods or activities using their leftover Halloween candy. For example, a special family dinner out may cost them 10 pieces of candy, while staying up an extra hour later on the weekends may only cost them five.

If you’re looking for additional ways to help your child make healthy dietary choices, consult with the team at Honolulu Keiki Dental. For more than a decade, these family dentists have offered comprehensive services to maintain children’s bright smiles, from preventative cleanings to restorative work like fillings. To learn more about this dental team’s capabilities, visit them online, or call (808) 944-1603 to make an appointment.