Treats-for-Toys Trade In

Candy is delicious, it sure is yummy,

But too much candy is hard on your tummy.

Stop after just a few pieces, ‘cause if you’re not willing,

You could damage your teeth and soon need a filling.

That’s sure not pleasant, for parent or wee one,

So trade candy for toys and swap pain in for fun!

If you don’t want to say no to trick or treating, but worry about what to do (or what your kids might do) with all of that candy afterward, start a new family tradition and have a “Treats for Toys Trade In”.

When trick-or-treating is over, have each child count his or her stash, and select a few favourites to enjoy over the next few weeks. Then, make an agreement that the remainder of the candy can be traded in to mom and dad for a new game or stuffed friend to play with. If you don’t tell the kids where it came from, the traded in candy can be slowly given out as an occasional treat over the coming months, used in baking, included in goody bags, or donated to some community organizations. A “Treats for Toys” trade-in is also be a good way to ensure that children with dietary restrictions such as nut allergies stay safe, while still feeling fully included in the Halloween fun.

Depending on the age of your children, some options to consider for the trade include setting a price for each piece of candy (so that one piece of candy counts as 25 cents towards the child’s toy of choice, for example), or simply exchanging the pile for a surprise toy, or a toy agreed on by you and your child.

The process of sorting, counting, valuing and trading the candy is great practical math practice, and it can demonstrate the benefits that come from exchanging instant gratification for greater long term rewards.

Not sure which toys to pick for your swap?

I know how hard that can be, so just ask Truffle the Pig or anyone else at Ape 2 Zebra to help.

Happy Trading!

- Theodore Bear