The debate over puddings has really got me thinking about the relationship between food and treats. Given that I have always struggled with my weight (too much sugar & carbs!) I am really keen to ensure that Small develops a sensible attitude to food - especially sugar. I agree, in principle, that any "treat" becomes inherently desirable but can't shake a gut feeling that lifting all embargoes can't be the right way to go either. Puddings on a Sunday were a treat as a kid but because they were part of a routine, we always knew they were coming and didn't pester for them midweek. Likewise, we knew that there was special food for birthdays or Christmas and those kind of foods weren't forthcoming at any other time. I'd like Small to know that sugar, in the processed form of biscuits or puddings, is something to be eaten in moderation when compared to fruit. Therefore, building them into her diet in the correct ratio should teach her what is a reasonable amount. To that end, I have been trying to incorporate this principle as part of her diet from about 10 months. Personally I am (theoretically) against any use of food as a bribe or incentive for "good" behaviour as it disrupts the whole philosophy that I have just outlined! How well I stick to that theory when coming under pressure from a willful toddler - who knows? Maybe "clementines as bribe" will come into play! Now, I am aware that this whole topic is potentially inflammatory and that there will be plenty of differing opinions so I am really interested in what everyone else thinks. Especially as to how to combine the BLW child-centred principle with the parental control over what is offered!