Finding the best candy for kids can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt! As parents, we want to see those little faces light up, but we also want options that are fun, safe, and maybe even a little bit nostalgic. With so many sweet snacks out there, how do you pick the perfect one for your child’s taste preferences or for that upcoming birthday party goodie bag?
Well, you’re in luck! We’ve scoured the candy aisles (figuratively speaking, of course) to bring you a list of 5 popular candies that consistently rank high with children and parents alike. From chewy classics to exciting new textures, these kid-friendly treats promise a burst of flavor and a whole lot of smiles. Let’s dive in and discover the best candy for kids that will make any occasion sweeter!
1. Airheads Candy Bars, Variety Bulk Box, Chewy Full Size
Airheads are a quintessential chewy candy, offering a delightful stretch and an explosion of fruity flavors. This variety pack is a fantastic choice for any candy lover, providing a colorful assortment that encourages playful snacking. Kids adore shaping them, pulling them, and savoring the intensely sweet and tangy taste. They’re a truly versatile treat, perfect for lunchboxes, party favors, or even getting creative with candy crafts!
- CONTAINS: 60-count, 6-flavor bulk variety pack of individually wrapped, full-sized candy bars.
- FLAVOR: Cherry, Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, White Mystery, Grape, and Orange.
- OCCASION: Great for lunch boxes, wedding candy bars, crafts, or concession stands.
- ALLERGY: Peanut-free, tree nut-free, gluten-free, and kosher.
Pros:
– Wide variety of popular flavors.
– Chewy texture is fun to eat and play with.
– Individually wrapped for freshness and convenience.
– Allergy-friendly (peanut, tree nut, gluten-free).
– Versatile for various occasions and crafts.
Cons:
– Exposure to heat can cause melting/damage.
– White Mystery flavor can be hit-or-miss for some.
– Can be quite sticky.
User Impressions:
Parents often highlight the excellent value and the joy these bring to kids, especially for school events or just as an everyday treat. The variety means there’s usually a flavor for everyone, and the allergy-friendly nature is a big plus for classroom settings. Kids just love how fun and tasty they are!
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2. SOUR PATCH KIDS Big Kids Soft & Chewy Candy, Share Size Bag
If your little one loves a good pucker, SOUR PATCH KIDS Big Kids are a fantastic choice. These aren’t just any Sour Patch Kids; they’re twice as big as the original, meaning double the sour-then-sweet experience! Each chewy candy bursts with assorted fruit flavors, starting with a tangy kick that mellows into a delightful sweetness. They’re perfect for sharing (or not!) and make any movie night or snack time a little more exciting.
- CONTAINS: One 12 oz share-size bag.
- FLAVOR: Assorted fruit flavors.
- SIZE: Soft & chewy candy that’s two times bigger than the original.
- OCCASION: Ideal for snacking after lunch, at the movies, party favors, and holiday candy.
Pros:
– Larger size offers more chewing and flavor per piece.
– Classic sour-then-sweet taste profile.
– Great for sharing, making them a fun social snack.
– Versatile for various events like parties and movie nights.
Cons:
– Sour taste might be too intense for some younger children.
– Can be quite sticky.
– Large pieces might not be ideal for very young toddlers.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the “big kids” size, saying it makes the experience even better. The classic sour-sweet balance is a hit, and many appreciate the larger portion for a more satisfying treat. They’re consistently described as a perfect movie snack or party pleaser.
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3. NERDS Gummy Clusters, Candy, Rainbow, Crunchy and Gummy
Get ready for a sensory adventure with NERDS Gummy Clusters! This candy masterpiece combines the best of both worlds: a soft, chewy gummy center surrounded by a vibrant crust of tiny, tangy, crunchy NERDS. Each bite is an explosion of texture and flavor, making it a unique and truly addictive treat. If you’re looking for an exciting addition to your candy collection that’s far from ordinary, these gummy clusters are a must-try.
- POPPABLE AND SWEET TO EAT: A sweet explosion of flavors in every bite.
- NERDSTASTIC EXPERIENCE: A unique tangy candy experience.
- TEXTURE: Classic, crunchy NERDS candies heaped on a red gummy candy center.
- OCCASION: Great for sharing, satisfying cravings, party candy, or an office pick-me-up.
Pros:
– Unique combination of crunchy and gummy textures.
– Vibrant, tangy, and sweet flavor profile.
– Fun bite-sized clusters are easy to eat.
– Great for sharing and adding excitement to any gathering.
Cons:
– Can be a bit messy due to the small NERDS pieces.
– The crunchy texture might not appeal to everyone.
– Packaging can sometimes lead to loose NERDS in the bag.
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently highlight the incredible texture combination as the standout feature. Many describe them as their “new favorite candy” because of the perfect balance of soft and crunchy, sweet and tangy. They’re often praised for being a creative twist on classic NERDS.
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4. Ring Pop Lollipops – Bulk Candy Individually Wrapped, Assorted Flavors
Ring Pops aren’t just candy; they’re wearable, edible jewelry that brings instant fun to any child’s day! These iconic lollipops feature a large, colorful candy gem on a plastic ring, allowing kids to wear their treat before they eat it. This bulk pack ensures you’ll have plenty of eye-catching candy gems in a variety of fruity flavors, making them perfect for party favors, goodie bags, or just a delightful surprise.
- ASSORTED CANDY VARIETY PACK: 5 mouth-watering fruity flavors: Strawberry, Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, Cherry, and Twisted Berry Blast.
- BULK LOLLIPOP BAG: 20 individually-wrapped, shelf-stable Ring Pop lollipops per bag.
- EYE-CATCHING CANDY GEM: Make delicious birthday candy party favors or a sweet treat.
- DELICIOUSLY PLAYFUL: Iconic wearable hard candy lollipop ring with an eye-catching candy gem.
Pros:
– Fun, interactive, and wearable candy experience.
– Great variety of popular fruity flavors.
– Individually wrapped for hygiene and easy distribution.
– Perfect for party favors, goodie bags, and events.
– Evokes a sense of nostalgia for many adults.
Cons:
– Hard candy means longer consumption time.
– Can get sticky as it melts down.
– Some kids might struggle with the plastic ring.
User Impressions:
Parents and kids alike adore Ring Pops for their unique playfulness. They’re consistently praised as excellent party favors, with many remembering them fondly from their own childhoods. The variety of flavors keeps everyone happy, and the individual wrapping is a big plus for cleanliness.
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5. SOUR PATCH KIDS Soft & Chewy Candy, Bulk Candy, 24 Bags
Sometimes, you just need the classic. SOUR PATCH KIDS Soft & Chewy Candy delivers that unmistakable “SOUR. SWEET. GONE.” experience in perfectly portioned, individually sealed bags. This bulk pack is a lifesaver for parents needing to stock up for school lunches, team snacks, or a never-ending supply of movie night treats. Each bag contains the beloved traditional SOUR PATCH KIDS shapes, offering a consistent burst of sour fruit flavors followed by a sweet finish.
- CONTAINS: Twenty-four 2 oz bags of SOUR PATCH KIDS Soft & Chewy Candy.
- FLAVOR: Assorted fruit flavors.
- TEXTURE: Soft and chewy candies with the traditional SOUR PATCH KIDS shape.
- OCCASION: Great for party favors, holiday candy, and movie theater candy.
Pros:
– Classic, beloved sour-then-sweet flavor.
– Individually portioned 2 oz bags for convenience and portion control.
– Ideal for bulk distribution for parties, school events, or trick-or-treating.
– Stays fresh longer due to individual packaging.
Cons:
– Sourness might not be suitable for very young children.
– Can be quite chewy and stick to teeth.
– Less variety compared to a multi-flavor bulk box.
User Impressions:
This bulk pack is a perennial favorite for its convenience and the consistent quality of the candy. Customers love having individual bags readily available for lunches, snacks, or party handouts. It’s often described as a “go-to” for parents because kids always love them.
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Making Sweet Choices for Your Little Ones
And there you have it! Our top picks for the best candy for kids that are sure to bring smiles and satisfy those sweet cravings. From the stretchy fun of Airheads to the exciting crunch of NERDS Gummy Clusters, and the classic sour-sweet kick of SOUR PATCH KIDS, there’s truly something for every palate. Ring Pops add that extra touch of playful fun, making snack time an event.
When choosing, remember to consider your child’s age, any allergies, and their personal favorites. Whichever you pick, these popular candies are tried and true winners in the world of kid-friendly treats! Happy snacking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What should I consider when choosing candy for kids?
A1: When selecting candy for children, it’s wise to consider their age (avoid choking hazards for very young kids), any allergies they might have, the sugar content, and artificial ingredients. Individually wrapped options are often great for portion control and hygiene, and of course, a fun factor is always a bonus!
Q2: Are these candies suitable for all ages?
A2: While generally popular, some candies like hard lollipops (Ring Pops) or very chewy items (Airheads, SOUR PATCH KIDS) might be choking hazards for very young toddlers (under 3-4 years old). Always supervise young children when they are eating candy, and consider their individual chewing abilities. The “Big Kids” SOUR PATCH KIDS, for instance, are larger and might be too much for tiny mouths.
Q3: How can I make candy consumption healthier for my child?
A3: Balance is key! Offer candy as an occasional treat rather than an everyday staple. Pair it with healthier snacks, ensure they brush their teeth after eating sweets, and encourage plenty of water intake. Choosing smaller portions or individually wrapped candies can also help with moderation.
Q4: What are some common allergens found in candy?
A4: Common candy allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, and wheat (gluten). Always check the ingredient list carefully, especially if your child has known allergies. Some brands, like Airheads, are specifically formulated to be peanut and tree nut-free, which is great for classroom settings.
Q5: Are individually wrapped candies better than bulk bags for kids?
A5: Individually wrapped candies offer several advantages: they help with portion control, maintain freshness longer, are more hygienic for sharing (e.g., in goodie bags or classrooms), and are convenient for on-the-go snacking. Bulk bags without individual wraps are often better for home consumption where you can manage portions yourself.
Q6: How much candy is too much for a child?
A6: There’s no strict rule, but health organizations generally recommend limiting added sugars. For children, candy should be a small, occasional treat. If candy consumption starts to replace nutritious foods, leads to dental problems, or impacts their energy levels negatively, it’s likely too much. Focus on moderation and a balanced diet.
Q7: What’s the difference between “Big Kids” SOUR PATCH KIDS and regular SOUR PATCH KIDS?
A7: The main difference is size! SOUR PATCH KIDS Big Kids are approximately two times larger than the original soft and chewy candies. They offer the same classic sour-then-sweet fruit flavors but in a bigger, more substantial bite, which some find more satisfying.