Comments on: The Cupcake Wars: As Seen in the NY Times (Plus More!)

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By: Joanna Dolgoff MD

Joanna Dolgoff MD — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:03:57 +0000

Thanks for writing. Here is the link for my list of healthier birthday celebration ideas: bit.ly/msYNz
I hope you put them to good use!

By: Alternatives

Alternatives — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:22:11 +0000

I was amazed at the # of times I was asked to bring in a snack this past year for my first grader! I know have a better understanding of the problem in schools with this concern. Where can I get some kid friendly ideas for a healthier birthday celebration?

By: Joanna Dolgoff MD

Joanna Dolgoff MD — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:48:02 +0000

I agree in freedom. Parents have the right to serve their children anything they want. However, in my opinion, a parent should not have the right to put something in front of my child that I don’t want them to eat. Thanks for writing!

By: Cascia @ Healthy Moms

Cascia @ Healthy Moms — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 16:57:32 +0000

I agree that parents should offer healthier alternatives for birthday treats but like Twin Toddlers Dad said, “tradition and economics seem to trump the notion of healthfulness.”

He is right. I wish that there was a way to make healthier food alternatives less expensive. If you take a look at foods on the grocery store shelves the least expensive items are the quick and easy high fat foods, nitrate containing meats like hot dogs, and snacks full of sugar, salt or high fructose corn syrup.

25 cup cakes from the local bakery may cost about $3 while a veggie tray would cost closer to $10. Also most children would prefer to pass out cup cakes instead of vegetables.

Another point I am going to make is this. Although I promote eating healthy foods on my blog and as a parent I chose to feed my children whole and organic foods I still believe in the freedoms of this country.

Parents should have the opportunity to chose what they want to pass out for birthday treats at their children’s schools. Some schools are banning sugary snacks but I don’t think that is a good idea. Another option that school districts should do is remove vending machines and along with making physical education a priority they should also include classes in nutrition. Teach our children how to make better food choices.

By: TwinToddlersDad

TwinToddlersDad — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:18:43 +0000

When it comes to Birthday parties, tradition and economics seem to trump the notion of healthfulness. I am not for “banning” cupcakes, but I do want to see healthier treats being offered at the same time. Same goes for “safe foods” for children with allergies.

We are beginning to see more fruites and veggies at our Daycare when such parties are organized. That is a good sign.

The idea of a ban is unlikely to work. Rules don’t change hearts and minds.

By: Joanna Dolgoff MD

Joanna Dolgoff MD — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:24:04 +0000

Thank you very much for your kind words! I really hope that we are able to make an impact.

By: Missy @ The Marketing Mama

Missy @ The Marketing Mama — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:22:37 +0000

I saw your original comment on the NY Times article and followed you back to your blog. I’m glad I did, as you have very interesting information here.

I’m a bit sensitive to this topic these days. One because I’m worried my kids will be overweight and I’d like to prevent that. While my husband and I aren’t obese, we are packing quite a few extra pounds and don’t want our kids to as well. This article and some of the info on your web site has led my husband and I to reevaluate how many desserts we are giving our children each week (it was too many times) and the amount of juice we give.

Secondly, my youngest has food allergies. She’s not in school yet – but I can guarantee you that she won’t be able to eat 85% or more of the treats kids bring in to share. She’ll have to have her own stash of “safe foods.”

I’ve heard that the food allergy moms and the ‘fight against obesity’ moms are teaming up to ban birthday party treats in the classrooms. Two serious issues that are on the rise in our society. Makes sense they would partner together. I just hope they all have it figured out by 2013 when my daughter starts Kindergarten.