Fallacy of the Sugar Police
Good and bad food? I don't think so.
Approximately two years ago the brilliant legislators in our state decided to create a law that sapped the fun out of classroom parties. As a room mom in my daughter’s class, since what seems like the beginning of time, I’ve been very aware of this politically-purposed legislation. The new rules declare what sweets can’t be served at school events and class parties. Essentially anything with sugar as a primary ingredient is now banned from school grounds. Therefore candy at Halloween parties, or ice pops at a year-end event are on the “can’t serve” list.
On the other hand, potato chips and soft pretzels are just fine, because we all know what nutritional gold mines those ingredients represent. And hey, the greasy pizza, nachos supreme, and popcorn chicken are still on the lunch menu because they will make our children become lean, mean studying machines. I can only guess that sugar became the enemy because it’s an easy target.
I have no problem keeping sugary food off the lunch menu offered to kids, but let’s think about the other choices, as well. And let’s leave it to the parents’ discretion what will be offered at celebrations. Because no matter what you legislate, some parents will find a way around the rules, or outright ignore them anyway. Better to allow the forbidden food once in a while, so we can teach our kids that there’s a time and a place for even the most unhealthy food choices.
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