Holiday Stocking Stuffer Ideas from your Pediatric Dentist!

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there!

Hanging Christmas stockings is a cherished part of our holiday tradition. Many children will wake up to find a stocking stuffed with candy canes, lollipops, candy, and other sugary treats. This year, your friends at The Kids Dentist encourage you to stick to traditional stocking stuffers to keep your kids healthy and cheerful come Christmas morning.

• A CHRISTMAS ORANGE. Did you know that an orange or clementine is the most traditional treat to go into a Christmas stocking? An orange on Christmas has been known to be a symbol of giving, good fortune, and Saint Nicholas’ gold sacks. An orange also fills out the toe of stocking perfectly!
• TREATS. Of course, sweets – especially candy canes – are a mainstay of the Christmas stocking. Candy canes and other hard and sticky candies contain loads of sugar AND stick in the nooks and crannies of teeth for a long time…a perfect recipe for cavity formation. Other traditional stocking stuffers such as chocolates, nuts, pretzels, and sugar-free mints or gum are healthier options. Also, consider a plastic candy cane filled with Hershey Kisses or sugar-free candy canes as alternatives.
• A TOOTHBRUSH. Treat your little ones to a fun new toothbrush in their stocking! There are many colorful children’s toothbrushes available that feature favorite characters like Paw Patrol, Frozen, and Star Wars. Or splurge on a rechargeable electric toothbrush for children from Sonicare or Oral-B for years of healthy and happy smiles.
• MONEY: A few dollars or coins are great way to encourage your child to start saving. Money or chocolate coins also represent Saint Nicholas’ gold riches.
• TRINKETS: Small gifts are a perfect way to complete your child’s stocking. Crayons, markers, playing cards, paintbrushes, costume jewelry, ChapStick, small books, hats, mittens, socks, and other small toys bring smiles on Christmas morning.

The Kids Dentist wishes your family a merry and bright holiday season and a very Happy New Year!!