Gabourey Sidibe, renowned for her role in ‘American Horror Story’, recently unveiled a whimsical approach to handling Halloween candy during an appearance on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’. Together with her husband, Brandon Frankel, the actress shared how they navigate the sweet temptation that their two-year-old twins, Cooper and Maya, are too young to fully appreciate.
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The couple welcomed their twins in April 2024 and have quickly established their own family traditions. During the chat with Kimmel, Sidibe revealed their clever method of swapping out candy for gifts, which they refer to as the “Switch Witch”. According to Sidibe, the children’s limited interest in candy prompted the couple to adopt this playful exchange. “We get them to gather the candy, then we tell them the ‘Switch Witch’ will come during the night while they sleep and leave them a gift in exchange. After that, we help ourselves to the candy,” she explained, offering a lighthearted glimpse into their parenting dynamics.
The actress further elaborated on the gifts the “Switch Witch” offers. She expressed how even at such a young age, their children have distinct preferences. This sometimes adds a layer of complexity to the swap. “The funny thing about having 2½-year-olds is that while they may seem very young, they actually have strong opinions about what they want,” Sidibe remarked, noting the amusing challenges that arise when trying to nail down their Halloween costumes.
As Halloween approached, Sidibe had already begun exploring costume options with her twins. In a previous appearance on ‘Good Morning America’, she excitedly recounted how the children were becoming more aware of the spooky festivities and were actively choosing their outfits. “My kids are really excited for the first time for Halloween. They are now two, and they understand what it is,” she shared, indicating the enthusiasm that accompanies their blossoming understanding of the holiday.
When discussing potential costumes, Sidibe was met with a variety of imaginative requests from her children. “Every day I ask them and my daughter comes up with something different. One day she wants to be a cow, the next a cat or even a werewolf!” she said. Meanwhile, her son had settled on an unusual choice: “He wants to be a blackberry!” This quirky aspiration prompted a chuckle from co-host Michael Strahan when he learned that Sidibe would need to delve into sewing to create the fruit-themed costume.
During the lively discussion, the topic soon shifted to what her son understood about Blackberries. In a humorous exchange with co-host George Stephanopoulos, the notion arose that perhaps he might be referencing the mobile device rather than the berry itself. Sidibe reassured them, “Oh no, he’s definitely talking about the fruit. He is two after all!” Her quick wit highlighted the innocent confusion between a fruit and its technological namesake.
Kimmel’s audience shared in the laughter as Sidibe recounted the amusing reality of parenting toddlers, reminding them that her son is not, in fact, a savvy business mind from a decade past but just a small child exploring his world. With her unique brand of humour and candid parenting anecdotes, Sidibe painted a relatable picture for all parents navigating Halloween with young children.
The couple’s innovative and playful approach to Halloween candy reflects not just their creativity but also their commitment to fostering a fun and memorable childhood experience for Cooper and Maya. As the holiday season unfolds, Sidibe’s experiences serve as a delightful reminder of the joys and challenges that come with parenthood, especially when it comes to the little ones’ ever-evolving wishes.
In summary, Sidibe’s efforts to manage Halloween treats through the “Switch Witch” reflects a broader theme in modern parenting — the balance of fun and practicality. By keeping the spirit of Halloween alive while also curbing the sugary consumption, Sidibe and Frankel demonstrate that parenting can be both inventive and enjoyable, ensuring that their twins can celebrate with glee while their parents can share a laugh or two along the way.