There's a scene in SuperSize Me, where Morgan Spurlock promises he'll counter McDonald's programming of his children by punching the kids in the face every time they drive by the Golden Arches. I think his punches are aimed at the wrong group here, but he's onto something.
Marketing poor food choices to kids is as common as bad television these days and media savvy parents should take a minute to equip themselves with Common Sense Blog's round-up of websites uncovering this special sort of evil. Most kids don't need much encouragement to skip the greens in favor of the fluffy salty yellows, but all the food marketing taking place in schools certainly doesn't help.
A British website,Which? gets high marks for an interactive web video outlining all the irresponsible food marketing most kids must withstand. The same site uncovers the uncommonly evil ploys companies use to reach kids, including the use of clubs, viral marketing, and of course branding (think Happy Meals). Animated shorts also provide another excellent educational tool and the "Food for Thought Film Festival" has many to view. Even though you may not allow your kids to eat the crap they pitch on TV, it still behooves you to know what, exactly, you're up against.
