Kids and candy are a classic pairing. From trick-or-treating to Easter baskets, to local parades and birthday parties, it can feel like kids are almost always bringing home another bag of treats. But while these holidays and events may be exciting for kids, they often end with parents dreading what comes next: negotiations around how much candy to consume.

As a registered dietitian and mom of three, I understand the stress that comes with wanting to encourage healthy food choices without removing all the fun of childhood traditions. I also believe the answer to this dilemma may be simpler than the familiar back and forth of “Just one more piece of candy!” and “Haven’t you had enough already?”

Research suggests that by placing fewer restrictions on candy and encouraging more autonomy around sweets, parents can give their kids opportunities to practice recognizing and responding to their hunger and fullness cues, supporting a healthier relationship with food over time.

Moralizing about food

There is no…