School calls for sweet thoughts not treats as candy canes banned
Cheery and cheap, they're a staple for Christmas cards, but Melbourne schools are banning candy canes. Find out why kids have been told to leave the festive treats at home.
VIC News
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Cheap and cheerful candy canes sticky-taped to Christmas cards have been banned at several schools.
The schools say they don’t want kids hyped up on sugar by 8.30am and wrappers dropped in the playground.
But Victoria’s peak health body said while it didn’t endorse candy canes the routine consumption of sugar nasties was a bigger issue.
Holy Rosary School in Kensington told parents it welcomed the exchange of Christmas cards during the Advent — but requested they not be accompanied with candy canes or similar treats.
“When candy canes are attached to the card the emphasis is usually on receiving a sugary treat, rather than the sentiment of the card and the tendency is to eat the candy cane immediately – usually at 8.30am” parents were told in a newsletter.
“Wrappers usually end up over the yard, too.”
There were no problems with children giving out cards without treats.
“This is a lovely tradition for children to participate in as it allows them to think carefully about those they would like to acknowledge and wish a happy Christmas,” the newsletter read.
“It is also a valuable way to practise handwriting skills.”
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Newport Lakes Primary School is also understood to have asked children not to exchange candy canes, citing problems with sugar. Both schools did not return the Herald Sun’s calls.
Many children sticky tape the sugary candy canes to their cards. With some classes directing everyone in the class should receive a greeting card, the sugar consumption could be huge.
In the past schools have cited dietary issues as a concern, with allergy and additive issues impacting students.
Some schools say if kids really want to give something with a card they can add a sticker.
But the candy canes, which sell at department stores such as Kmart for $5 for a container of 100, are a budget and kid pleaser.
VicHeath chief executive officer Dr Sandro Demaio said with more than a third of kids’ energy consumption coming from unhealthy food there needed to be tougher standards for what was served to children.
“While no-one would consider candy canes a health food, we’re most concerned about the sugary food and drinks kids are eating every day such as soft drinks, chocolate bars and cakes,” Dr Demaio said.
“We’d like to see healthier food and drink options for kids all year round in canteens and on the supermarket shelves.
“We understand teachers and principals care about their students’ health and wellbeing. We want to support parents, teacher and most of all kids, to access and enjoy good food every day.”