Ideas for non-food rewards

As a parent, you want the best for your child. Many of us have used food, usually sweets, to comfort or reward our child - a biscuit for a skinned knee, an ice cream for a scored goal, a lollipop to cheer up a crying toddler at the supermarket.

Celebrating occasionally with a treat is OK but it is important that we also reward our kids in other ways and establish healthy habits. Here are a few ideas:

• Use attention or praise by hugging them or telling them you are proud of their achievements.
• Offer privileges like an extra bedtime story, trip to the library, listening to music or a walk or bike ride.
• Try small gifts as rewards - ideas include pencils, pens, stickers or bookmarks.