Alternatives to food rewards
Food rewards can be an easy way to bring about an
immediate behavior change in students. So why change a reward system that
seems to work? Because rewarding children with food can contribute to health
problems such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. It also interferes
with learning to eat in response to hunger and fullness cues. Giving donuts
and soft drinks to students may seem like a harmless treat for a job well
done, but rewarding children with unhealthy food can develop habits that
stay with them throughout their school careers...and their lives.
Review the information below for healthy alternatives to food reward for
students of all ages.
Elementary school students:
• Trips to a treasure box filled with nonfood items such as stickers, bubbles, jump ropes, puzzles, key chains, yo-yo's, trading cards, pencil toppers, etc
• Bank system (use play money to be used for privileges)
• Play favorite game
• Extra recess
• Make deliveries to office
• Sit by friends
• Help teach class
• Eat lunch with teacher
• School supplies
• Show-and-tell
• Paperback book
Middle school students:
• Sit with friends
• Five minute chat break at end of class
• Reduced homework
• Extra credit
• Fun video
• Computer time
• Eat lunch or have class outside
High school students:
• Extra credit
• Fun video
• Reduced homework
• Donated movie coupons
• Free Choice" time at end of class