GummyTalk Forum

So I just started taking these new softgel vitamins for my immune system, and my 4-year-old daughter saw the bottle on the counter. She grabbed it, shook it, and said 'Mommy, can I have candy?' I had to explain they're medicine, not candy, but now she keeps asking for 'the shiny candies' every time she sees the bottle. Anyone else deal with this? I'm worried she might try to get into them when I'm not looking.

Oh dear, I remember when my grandson did something similar with my husband's fish oil softgels! He thought they were 'slippery jelly beans.' We had to move ALL supplements to a high cabinet with a child lock. At that age, they don't understand the difference. Maybe try explaining that they're 'grown-up vitamins' and offer her a children's gummy vitamin instead? The ones with natural colors might be less tempting.

This is SO common! I've had followers DM me about their kids mistaking supplements for treats. First - safety first: get a lockbox or keep them completely out of reach. Second - try making it a teaching moment about health. I did a reel last week about how I show my niece my vitamins and explain they help my body stay strong, then give her her own kid-safe option. The texture thing is real too - my partner refuses softgels because they 'feel weird,' so I switched him to powdered greens instead!

The body knows what it needs, and sometimes children intuitively reject synthetic forms. Have you considered whole-food alternatives? Softgels often contain gelatin from questionable sources and artificial colors. A mashed berry blend with local honey might give similar benefits without the 'candy' confusion. That said, definitely keep all supplements locked up - even natural ones can be harmful in little hands.

LOL my husband did this with my electrolyte softgels during marathon training! He popped one thinking it was candy and made the worst face - said it tasted 'like salty plastic.' Now I keep them in my gym bag. For kids, I'd second the lockbox idea. Maybe also try a visual aid? I've seen color-coded pill organizers that look nothing like candy containers. Stay vigilant - those little ones are quick!