Rocky Rewards

Currently there is a health movement sweeping across our country encouraging educators to avoid rewarding students with sugar. But let’s face it, candy is cheap, teachers are poor and we know that it motivates kids! But the fact is, healthy alternatives make sense. So what are some healthy or inexpensive ways to reward our students?  Here is one way, but I would love to hear your suggestions. In second grade, we learn about rocks and their properties. My husband told me that his fourth grade teacher gave her class rocks as a reward. I think this is a great idea! I have always loved the glossy finished surface of polished rocks but they can be pricy. Although polished rocks are pricy, ordinary rocks are free and thanks to the Earth’s crust, we have an over abundance of them. You’d be surprised what cool rocks you can find! And if you have a rock tumbler you can make your own polished rocks. So, this year I am going to have a jar or better yet, metallic bucket with the label ‘You Rock!’ on it. Whenever a student earns a reward, he/she will pick from the rock jar and add it to his/her collection.  Now since I have never tried this before it might fall flat on its face. And if it does, there is always the unhealthy but sweet alternative. Candy pebble rocks! You can find these at most bulk food stores for around $4 a pound.  Either way, this idea rocks! In case you are interested, here is a free download of vocabulary words to go with your rock unit.  

Also, Christie from First Grade Fever shared some fantastic rewards that don't involve sugar. You can find the free downloads here.  Thanks for sharing Christie! :)  I also created some Sweet Treats labels that you can download for free at my TPT store here. I know, I know what you're thinking. This may defeat the purpose of my post, but an occasional sweet treat won't hurt, right?