Topics for discussion: Do you agree that advertisements of toys and fast foods are obstacles to children's physical and mental development, and, at the same time, cause loss of time and money of parents.

In today’s world, advertisements are everywhere, influencing our decisions and shaping our lifestyles. Among these, advertisements for toys and fast foods are particularly targeted at children. While some argue that these ads are harmless and even entertaining, I believe they can negatively impact children’s physical and mental development and place unnecessary financial strain on parents. 

Firstly, advertisements for fast foods often promote unhealthy eating habits among children. These ads are designed to be colorful, fun, and appealing, often featuring cartoon characters or catchy jingles. As a result, children are drawn to high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as burgers, fries, and sugary drinks. Consuming such foods regularly can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems at a young age. Moreover, children may not yet have the ability to differentiate between what is healthy and what is not, making them more vulnerable to the influence of these advertisements.

Secondly, toy advertisements can affect children’s mental development by creating unrealistic expectations. Many ads portray toys as magical or life-changing, leading children to believe that owning these products will bring them happiness or social status. When these expectations are not met, children may feel disappointed or even develop a sense of entitlement. Additionally, constant exposure to such advertisements can encourage materialism, where children value possessions over experiences or relationships. This mindset can hinder their emotional growth and ability to appreciate non-material aspects of life.

From the parents’ perspective, these advertisements can lead to unnecessary expenses and stress. Children often pressure their parents to buy the latest toys or fast foods they see on TV or online. This phenomenon, known as "pester power," can cause parents to spend money on items that are not essential or beneficial. For families with limited budgets, this can create financial strain and even feelings of guilt if they are unable to fulfill their children’s demands. Furthermore, the time spent dealing with these requests or managing the consequences of unhealthy eating habits can be exhausting for parents.

On the other hand, some might argue that advertisements are simply a part of modern life and that parents should take responsibility for guiding their children. While this is true to some extent, it is important to recognize that advertisements are created by professionals who understand how to manipulate emotions and desires, especially in young minds. Expecting parents to counteract this influence entirely on their own is unrealistic and unfair.

In conclusion, advertisements for toys and fast foods can indeed pose obstacles to children’s physical and mental development while also causing financial and emotional strain for parents. To address this issue, stricter regulations on advertising to children should be implemented, and parents should be supported with resources to educate their children about media literacy. By taking these steps, we can create a healthier and more balanced environment for children to grow and thrive.

1. What is it that makes an advert effective?

2. What things do advertising companies do that might give it a bad name?

3. What are the advantages to companies of advertising on the Internet?