Healthy Rewards for Children

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Rewarding children for good behavior helps them learn what is appropriate and fosters the development of new habits.  However, rewarding with food teaches children that certain foods, typically sweets, are the foods that they should want and act good for while others are not so desired.  Food rewards take away from the message that a variety of foods should be eaten as part of regularly scheduled meals and snacks for nourishment.  Instead of using sweets and other foods for comfort or rewards include them in an overall healthy diet as sometime foods.

Whether it's rewarding children for good behavior, participating in Fall Harvest Festivals or giving treats for Halloween, consider giving these rewards:

THE BEST REWARDS ARE FREE!

Time spent together Undivided attention A hug A smile A pat on the back A simple "Thank you" A kind word A picnic (any time of year) A walk in the park Fun physical activities

A song A book read aloud A belly laugh A helping hand A positive attitude Patience Love Friendship Praise Understanding