I remember being told those words several times as a child when I had wanted something so bad (a new toy, a trip to the pizza restaurant, among other things) that I ended up having a tantrum. Those words were sensible, words that every kid needs to be told at least once during his growing-up years if he's to develop into a reasonably grounded adult -- but of course I didn't relish hearing them!
Now as an adult and seeing how parents have such a tough time instilling discipline in today's children, I can understand the need for an environment that will help parents (instead of making it harder for them) to bring up their brood properly. Apparently, Wal-Mart in this case is adding to parents' problems. But you can do something!
From Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood --
At Wal-Mart's new website, http://toyland.walmart.com/, children review a parade of toys while two animated elves encourage and reward them for adding items to a wish list. "If you show us what you want on your wish list, we'll blast it off to your parents," say the elves. "We'll help plead your case."
Wal-Mart is ruthlessly coming between parents and children and actively encouraging kidsto nag for their holiday gifts. Many of the products in Toyland - such as the Bratz Fashion Makeover (pictured) - may be antithetical to parents' values. Others, like the Fisher Price Power Wheels Cadillac Escalade ($279), cost more than many parents can afford. Yet children do not need a parent's permission to enter Toyland, there is no age requirement to use the site, and kids are encouraged to submit their parents' email address in order to send their wish list.
Families have a hard enough time navigating holiday commercialism without the world's largest retailer bypassing parents entirely and urging children to nag. Please tell Wal-Mart to close the doors to Toyland.
Your message will be sent to Wal-Mart President and CEO Lee Scott and Wal-Mart.com President Carter Cast.
Go to the website and help this petition move forward!
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