Celebrations are important, and they should be enjoyed! There are lots of ways to make celebrations fun, festive and exciting without overloading on unhealthy treats. Consider shifting the focus from food to fun next time you want to send something in to the class to help celebrate a birthday or holiday. Send in game supplies, pencils, stickers, craft supplies, small containers of play dough or other small tokens instead of candy or cupcakes. Classroom activities such as playing a game or having a dance party are memorable and also a great way to get kids moving. To recognize the birthday student you could make a button, sign, sash, crown or badge for them to wear. Celebrating in these ways might feel even more special for the student and also teaches them that fun doesn’t depend on unhealthy food. Find more unique and healthy party ideas here: http://cspinet.org/new/pdf/healthy_school_celebrations.pdf