Harvest festivals, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas cookie exchanges: what do these all have in common?

An abundance of sweet treats, of course.

Managing our intake of sugar and fat can be a challenge during these food-related holidays. But if we use some easy “tricks,” we can keep our diet healthy overall and still celebrate with dishes we love.

Trick #1: Make treats a special occasion.

During World War II, sugar was rationed and desserts were very rare. Today, we could splurge on candy, desserts and soda anytime we like.

However, when we eat these items every day, they are no longer “treats” by definition. Not only are they no longer special — they also become unhealthy. Regular consumption of sugars and extra fats causes weight gain and related diseases.

Have treats become everyday fare in your diet? For one week, write down every time you eat or drink them. Then make a specific plan to enjoy treats more sparingly.

Trick #2: Think small: small plates and small portions.

You can still enjoy big flavor in a few bites of a dessert.

Petite, colorful plates and bowls can be fun serving dishes. For example, at my house, we use bright yellow espresso cups and tiny spoons for ice cream.

If you are hosting a holiday gathering, try a Spanish tapas theme: make everything appetizer size. This allows guests to sample many different items without overindulging.

Trick #3: Fill up on healthy foods first.

Timing is important: enjoy treats after finishing a healthy meal. At a party, fill your plate with fresh veggies and hummus or salsa. Once you finish these, choose whatever you like.

Trick #4: Choose the liquid treat or the solid treat — not both.

Soda pop and alcoholic beverages can contain surprising amounts of sugar. Drink water instead to free up those calories for cake or pie.

Trick #5: Keep large amounts of treats out of sight or get rid of them quickly.

Have a plan for managing the surplus of Halloween and Christmas sweets.

For Halloween candy, try the “treasure chest” approach: put the candy in a specially marked box or bag out of easy reach of your child (and you). Every few days after dinner allow your child to enjoy one piece.

Some families prefer the “one lick” method: in one sitting, allow your child to take one lick or small bite of ALL of the candy, until it is gone.

We adults can use the same tricks for ourselves when we receive an abundance of treats: either store them out of sight, or eat one serving and then give (or throw) away the rest.

Managing our sweet tooth can be difficult, but these tricks can make it easier. Give them a try for a healthier path through the holidays and into the New Year.

For just the right balance of treats and fun, we invite all area families to the Fall Festival at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA, which will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28.

Chrissie Kaufmann is a certified fitness instructor at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA.