Rewards

Teachers often offer food and candy as rewards for positive behaviors and achievements. While students may enjoy these items, they do not provide any nutritional value and can have a negative impact on student behavior and focus. Provide rewards that align with healthy messages being taught in the classroom and school.

Healthy Rewards Ideas:

• Extra recess time
• Handwritten note of praise
• Coupons for choosing the read aloud book, having lunch with the teacher, or other privileges
• Teacher’s Helper for the day
• Points or play money to spend on privileges or non-food items
• Treasure box of inexpensive items such as pencils, erasers, bookmarks, or other school supplies

Additional Resources:

• Start a conversation about healthy rewards with the Rewards Done Right presentation.
• Send a letter to parents about your rewards strategy so they can support you and reinforce at home
• Visit the Healthy Non-Food Rewards Tip Sheet for more information and ideas.

Wellness Policy

Check your school district’s wellness policy–there may be guidelines around how teachers reward students. If the district policy does not cover rewards, work with your fellow teachers and administration to develop a non-food reward policy for your school.