We know how easy it can be to use food as a reward for all sorts of things - behaving appropriately, scoring well on a test, being a good teammate, getting a shot at the doctor’s office. And, let's face it..."reward food" is usually junk food and candy, not a salad or a piece of fruit!

But, the more food is used as a reward, the more kids expect it and come to rely on it. Using food as a reward often leads to kids and teens over-eating foods that are high in sugar, fat, and empty calories, and it can interfere with their ability to regulate their eating.

Instead, reward them with an activity or an experience that they will enjoy, like picking a friend for an athletic drill, getting first choice for a partner for their next project, or picking the music they get to listen to at practice.

Here are some ideas to start:

Younger Kids