A Northland parent claimed teachers at her son's first school routinely rewarded children with chocolate and lollies, sparking debate about whether this is a good idea.

Health Ministry guidelines say schools should not serve sweets or chocolate at all, and concerns have been raised about the health impacts. 

Auckland University professor Boyd Swinburn says there could probably be better ways to reward kids for good behaviour.

"Plenty of schools have done it, plenty of schools do say they're providing the best environment for kids, they're being institutional role models - and they'll find ways to do it."

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A Northland parent claimed teachers at her son's first school routinely rewarded children with chocolate and lollies, sparking debate about whether this is a good idea.
Health Ministry guidelines say schools should not serve sweets or chocolate at all, and concerns have been raised about the health impacts.&nbsp;
Auckland University professor Boyd Swinburn says there could probably be better ways to reward kids for good behaviour.
"Plenty of schools have done it, plenty of schools do say they're providing the best environment for kids, they're being institutional role models - and they'll find ways to do it."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Boyd Swinburn: Auckland University professor on the debate over whether schools should give out sweets as rewards

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/57f3031e-b0ef-42cc-b9e7-b4110051b05f/transcript