Celebrations and Rewards

Food and beverages are sometimes part of classroom celebrations, parties, and special events or offered to students as rewards for academic achievement or positive classroom behavior. Schools and parents can work together to ensure that celebrations, events, and rewards support health. For example, they can provide only healthy foods and beverages at celebrations and events and offer nonfood items for rewards. These strategies are relevant for celebrations that happen during the school day as well as those in out-of-school time programs on school grounds. Ideas for nonfood rewards include extra time for recess, stickers, or a note of recognition from a teacher or principal.