Zero Cost Alternatives forThe Entire Class

Read outdoors
Get "free choice" time at the end of the day
Play an educational computer game
Listen to music while working
Play a favorite game or puzzle
Eat lunch outdoors with the class
Have extra art time
Enjoy class outdoors
Have a show and tell day

Zero Cost Alternatives for Individuals

Sit by friends
A phone call, email or letter home
A note from the teacher to the student
Read to a younger class
Get a no homework pass
Make deliveries to the office
Be a helper in another classroom
Choose class activity
A photo recognition board in a prominent location in the school
Sitting by friends or in a special seat next to the teacher

Low cost Alternatives

Select a paperback book
Enter a drawing for donated prizes
Take a trip to the treasure box
Get stickers, pencils and other school supplies
Receive video store or movie theater coupon
Get a set of flash cards printed from the computer
Receive a "mystery pack"
(notepad, folder, sports cards, etc.)
Pencil, ribbon, trophy, plaque, , certificate or a sticker with an affirming message (great job!)

Detrimental as a Practice

Using food as an incentive for good behavior connects "food to mood" and encourages children to eat even when they are not hungry.

Researchers measured food-related school policies and practices, guidelines and health promoting activities, as well as students' BMI's. Results show using food as incentives is associated with higher BMI's.

Despite nationwide effort, the percentage of children classified as overweight continues to rise.

Although using food can be an easy and inexpensive reward, the foods offered usually have little or no nutritional value.

Disadvantages of using food as a reward include:

It undermines nutrition educations being taught in the school environment
It encourages overconsumption of foods high in added sugar and fat
It teaches kids to eat when they're not hungry as a reward to themselves

"Kids learn preferences for foods made available to them, including those that are unhealthy. Poor food choices and inadequate physical activity contribute to overweight and obesity. Currently obesity among kids is at epidemic levels and can often lead to serious health problems."