Getting children to consume their vegetables is a common hurdle for parents, but have you ever thought of offering them cash to make it happen? Surprisingly, research indicates that this approach may actually be effective.
A recent study conducted at Utah State University found that kids were more inclined to eat fruits and vegetables when they received both monetary incentives and verbal praise. The results showed that those who were rewarded with money consumed approximately a third of a cup more fruits and vegetables daily compared to their peers who were only given verbal encouragement, who managed just under a quarter-cup. It appears that children can be quite shrewd when it comes to food!
While the thought of paying kids to eat healthily may seem outrageous, researchers argue that it promotes repeated tasting. This repeated exposure can eventually lead children to develop a taste for foods they initially rejected, potentially transforming broccoli from a projectile into a palatable option. But what if they just learn how to negotiate for your cash rather than actually enjoy a carrot?
Although the research offers some compelling insights, I question whether this is truly the best strategy for dealing with picky eaters. Yes, mealtimes can be frustrating, but is it really wise to start compensating children for basic nutritional needs? I don’t want to sound like my parents who would recount their uphill walks to school, but I distinctly remember being left at the dinner table for hours until I finished my spinach. It was definitely not my favorite, but I learned to eat it without needing a financial incentive.
While it’s important not to force children to consume foods they cannot tolerate, we also shouldn’t enable their pickiness by offering money. A balanced diet is an essential part of life, and it’s a skill they will need as adults. Children must cultivate intrinsic motivation to eat healthily rather than rely on external rewards that are not sustainable.
No one will be there to ensure they brush their teeth, exercise, or eat well as they grow up. Providing rewards for these fundamental behaviors in childhood may create complications in the future. If a child struggles with their nutritional intake, seeking the assistance of a healthcare professional is a more appropriate route than resorting to bribery. Let’s not set a precedent by paying our children to fulfill their necessary biological needs.
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In summary, while incentivizing children to eat their veggies may yield short-term results, fostering internal motivation and encouraging healthy habits without financial rewards is a more sustainable approach.