 NON-FOOD REWARDS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY By Kristi Rambo We’ve probably all experienced the use of food as a reward. Food can play a positive role in connecting with our community, culture and in creating memories. Food is meant to be enjoyed and we are big fans of celebrating with it (even buttery/sugary ones from time to time). However, while cultivating a healthy relationship with food, we have to watch out for relying on it (especially sugary treats) for every little reward. While it might seem sensible to use “special food” to celebrate special occasions, research shows this can negatively impact our relationship with food. Indulging in unhealthy foods and giving them to kids as rewards sends mixed messages and can lead to overeating, emotional eating and eating without being hungry. So, what should we do instead? HERE ARE SOME NON-FOOD TREAT IDEAS FOR YOU AND YOUR KIDS: Trip to a favorite place like the beach, park, pool, bowling alley or movies New craft supplies Listening to favorite music Reading Time with a friend or family member Playing a favorite game Dance party Playing a sport Movie night at home LOCAL OPTIONS: Family Swim, at Riverside Health Club, Mount Vernon Summit Trampoline Park, Bellingham Clear Lake Beach, Mt. Vernon Skagit Wildlife Area, Puget Sound and Islands Farmers Market, Mt. Vernon Children’s Museum, Burlington Reptile Zoo, Munroe Fort Casey State Park, Coupeville Historical Museum, La Conner
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