Hilltown Families 
Should the red whorl be outlawed?
When my daughter first saw this photo she said, “Oooohhhh mommy … I like that one.” What’s not to like? The bright red is eye catching. It makes a vibrant photo, or a pretty still life drawing. But if my daughter were offered such a cupcake in her class to eat, my reaction would not be so pretty. I can only hope that I have taught her what she needs to know to make good choices.
Maybe you wonder why someone would object to the consumption of such a pretty confection? Sugar, trans fats, red dye no. 9, to name a few. I’m open enough to entertain the argument that one cupcake every once in a while won’t kill her. But what about those kids in her class that have allergies to wheat, dairy or artificial coloring?
Should schools ban cupcakes at class parties or just limit them? Should the school or the parents set the food rules for children? You can voice your opinion by taking a poll just on this topic:
- Should schools ban cupcakes at class parties? (poll has been closed)
In the meantime, do you have a “healthy” cupcake recipe to offer? Share below your favorite recipe with other Hilltown Families.
Banning things from a public school out of respect for a minority may not be the best way to teach our children tolerance. In our school system, children with food issues are brought to the attention of the teachers, nurse, etc. As our children grow up, they will not be isolated form the world and will have to get used to co-workers bringing in treats they cannot have and being at functions where foods may be dangerous to them.
When classmates and close friends see that some children cannot have the same foods they can, it makes them aware. They may even begin to look out for their friends. And as they get older they may pick different ‘treats’ to bring in social situations.
This could also apply to other social and personal issues. For example, banning christmas concerts or holloween parties do not offer opportunity for conversations or lessons on different views. Tolerance is learned by inclusion, not avoiding or hiding from conflict.
All that being said, offering an alternative snack for kids who cannot have certain snacks is better than banning snacks all together.
Unfortunately, in our experience, many people hold ‘abundance’ as an important value, and believe that sharing that abundance is part of their celebrations: (Abundance of sugar! Preservatives! Food colouring and junk!) I often have a hard time making peace with the conflict I feel in such situations: but I Son’t think that, out of respect to those with food allergies, special diets, or questions, it is too much for schools and daycare groups to limit sweets on birthdays and special occasions. (Some parents might just tell me to get over myself, but I do think it’s important that we respect each others’ choices. )
I would save the treats (and even the date-puree sweetened ones) for an event that I host: the school is not my home, and I don’t think it’s my place to provide the pupils with their snacks. (I *do* make cupcakes for birthdays, never red, and not always foodie-photogenic: but they are always a hit.)
(I think this is a broad social issue, and one that bears discussion! ben & zoé’s daycare has its own cook, and there is absolutely no food- sweets or otherwise- that crosses the door. Some kids have terrifying food allergies, and I’m sure their parents can sleep peacefully, knowing that Chantal is watching over their kids’ plates!)
There is an abundance of ways of celebrating: including spending special time with mum & dad.
The Internet is a great source for recipes of all styles and diet needs…