Parents: Just say no

Articles like this in the LA Times amaze me:

McDonald's faces lawsuit over Happy Meals


An organization is suing McDonald's saying that having toys in its Happy Meals contribute to childhood obesity by luring young children to the unhealthy food offered at their restaurants.

That's very interesting considering a child must be driven there by an adult who also pays for their food. Parents are responsible for what goes into the mouths of their children. So, hey parents, how about you just say no?

My boys ask a lot to go to McDonald's. Occasionally we go, but most of the time I say no for a variety of reasons. If we do eat there, most of the time I make them split fries and apple dippers (without the caramel) and drink white milk. Do the whine for chocolate milk or soda? Yes. Do they whine for ice cream for dessert? Yes. Do they whine that they want a toy? Yes.

But guess what. I'm the parent. What I say goes. Yes, it's annoying. Yes, it's what kids do. But come on people, blaming McDonald's for childhood obesity? McDonald's is not responsible for your child, YOU are.

I'm not advocating for McDonald's. The food is not healthy. But it's unreasonable to think you can avoid eating there. But there are choices...apples instead of fries. Hamburger instead of cheeseburger. Milk. Or better yet, save calories and money and eat at home.