To the editor:

Last year an edict was declared in the schools, disallowing sweets from parties to improve our children’s health and nutrition. The rule was loosely followed last year, but this year is supposed to be strictly adhered to. So for the “Winter Party,” my three sons will be munching on tasty treats like fruit and veggies. No candy or cookies for them!

I’m sorry, but this is ridiculous. If the school system really wants to improve the health standards, take a look at what is being served for lunch. This week they had hot dogs, chicken alfredo, mozzarella sticks (fried, of course), pizza sticks, Italian dunkers and popcorn shrimp. And yet for THREE PARTIES A YEAR they can’t have cookies and candy? Like that’s going to make a difference?

And then gym. The kids participate in gym one to two times per week. In the ’70s, I participated in gym every day.

According to the Institute of Medicine, childhood obesity has tripled over the last three decades. And I know the schools are being pushed to do what can be done to help with this problem. However, punishing children by not allowing sweets at parties seems hypocritical when unhealthy food is being served daily for lunch.

Bah humbug.

Tammy Yergey,

Lecompton