My child has asthma, do I expect all the children to take a break and sit on the side at recess because she has too? Absolutely not! Please, enough rules in the schools, now take away the treats because someone couldn't eat it, whether they are allergic, obese, don't like it, etc. What is this world coming too??!!
Some accreditations require this rule to be implemented in schools. Last year my son's preschool was trying to get a particular one that had really ridiculous rules beyond the no food rule. This made it difficult and more costly to offer rewards for Box Top contest or even to donate snacks to the classroom. They have since changed to a different accreditation, but it may be the reason for the policy your PTO is facing.
My son's new school in a different district in the next town over and they do not have this rule, however for the Pizza reward we have to state that students are allowed to chose the regular lunch program on that day.
I agree with you jewels3. It doesn't make any sense to me that many school district's are getting rid of snacks in school and fundraisers involving food products. Having a treat in school once in a while does not contribute to childhood obesity. It all starts in the home. Parents need to be held more responsible for what they feed their children.
It's interesting that generations of children enjoyed treats during class parties with no problem long before the national epidemic of obesity took root. So, what is different today that childhood obesity is on the upswing? It's obviously not because treats are served at school parties. As another poster said, the problem begins at home with children being served too many starches and carbs day in and day out coupled with too much inactivity. The problem does not lie with treats served at parties three times a year.
However, the powers that be seem to think there is a correlation between the two, so you have no choice but to adhere to it. It's just very disappointing all the way around.
I feel like we parents should support what ever the district policy is--regardless of how we personally feel. The majority of the rules are decided upon by state and federal guidelines and are discussed and debated by school officials before being presented to the public. They are not put out there "willy nilly" just to cause us aggrevation.
Additionally, just because we had cupcakes in class for our birthdays doesn't mean we should still be doing it. Kids wear saftey helmets now--we never did. If the kids don't ever experience food at parties in school, they will never know that they are "missing out."
The wellness policy encompasses much more than food, but it seems to be the one thing people get hung up on. Maybe it is because sending in a treat doesn't necessarily take any thought or effort. I've seen tons of Little Debbie "holiday treats" at class parties. Games are way more fun than eating snacks. I can't remember one food item I received at a class party from my childhood. But I do remember making some great crafts! Think outside the box.
Don't waste time trying to argue the school policies--it will only lead to frustration. And no one likes a bitter PTO member...
If the distrct has a no food for classroom parties, the rule must have been created to solve a problem. Perhaps seeking the out the reason behind the policy may help provide you leverage in getting the policy revised and softened.
You'll need the district's help in understanding the reasoning behind the rule.
