Meow, I just want to say that you seem very connected and in touch with your boy, which is lovely!

Snacks - I think maybe it depends on the child and circumstances. Sometimes I find the same thing with DS. I wait nearby and tell him I'm there for cuddles when he needs it, but I can't touch him when he's going off. But then there are times when he loses it but needs cuddles right away. I think being there, however works best, helps them to know they are safe and secure, I don't see it as positive reinforcement of the behaviour. It's not really a bad behaviour, just an explosion of pent up.... stuff.... ok, I don't really know what it is