Using food as reward in the classroom or at home is easy, inexpensive, and may result in short term behavior change. However, the long term effects have many negative consequences for children. It may contribute to poor health such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dental cavities. Rewarding children with food does not provide a healthy lifestyle model. Consider using alternate methods of rewarding children from the list below.
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Place a photo recognition board in a prominent location in the school
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Give student a note from the teacher commending his/her achievement
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Make a phone call or send an email/letter to the student’s parent/guardian
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Recognize student on the school’s morning announcements or school website
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Give student a ribbon or certificate of achievement
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Give student a sticker
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Allow student to visit the non-food treasure box to pick out stickers, pencils, pens, sidewalk chalk, bookmarks, notepads, etc.