This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

Warning: Turn Off Those Junk-Food Ads!

Parents know it, but last week a government study made it official: Kids' food choices are swayed by ads, especially when the ads use cartoon or movie characters. Unfortunately, as Michael Jacobson of the Center for Science in the Public Interest points out, most foods marketed to kids are fast foods, candy and sugary breakfast cereals. "Kids get hammered by junk-food ads," Jacobson told TFK. "It's sad, because we are talking about kids' health."

The government study calls for companies to market only healthful foods to kids. SpongeBob can already be found on packages of carrots. Maybe Squidward can help promote asparagus, and Jimmy Neutron can push Brussels sprouts!

Next: And They're Off!