If Valentine's Day has you running to the store for gifts, you don't want to forget the littlest love of your life. Kiddie themed Valentine sweets are everywhere. But when you're making your chocolate choices, Pediatrician Dr. Joe Matusic says moderation is important.

Dr. Joe Matusic, MD/Pediatrician
There's a lot of caffeine in chocolate. So you have to watch for that caffeine reaction, some kids have an allergic reaction to it, some go a little crazy on the sugar and sometimes it's the red food coloring in medicines and some candies that will do that. So you never know if it's food coloring, sugar, or caffeine.

So watching how your kids react to the treats is important. Especially if allergies are a problem.

Dr. Joe Matusic, MD
It's a decision you have to make on your own and watch your child's reaction. Sometimes there are nuts in the candies, and you have to be careful with them.

Of course, good nutritious snacks on hand are always your best bet. Even the tiniest tots in your house can get a sweet snack... how about a Valentine red apple!

Just remember at this age, you're helping develop a healthy attitude toward food and how it fits into life. So as long as you don't forgo the 3-5 servings of veggies or 2-4 servings of fruit in favor of the candy and other sweets... you'll likely achieve a healthy balance on Valentines day, and every day in between.

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