A women called Cheryl from Fargo, North Dakota, has decided that any trick or treaters who she deems to be "moderately obese" will get notes - instead of lollies - telling their parents to smarten up their kids' diets.
Cheryl called her local radio station Y-94 to discuss her intended strategy, then emailed the note to the radio station (see below).
Happy Halloween and Happy Holidays Neighbor!
You are probably wondering why your child had this note: have you ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child?"" I am disappointed in "the village" of Fargo Moorhead. West Fargo.
Your child is, in my opinion, moderately obese, and should not be consuming sugar and treats to the extent of some children this Halloween season.
My hope is that you will step up as a parent and ration candy this Halloween and not allow your child to continue these unhealthy eating habits.
Thank You.
"I just want to send a message to the parents of kids that are really overweight... I think it's just really irresponsible of parents to send them out looking for free candy just 'cause all the other kids are doing it," she told the radio announcer.
The move has stunned parenting bloggers and experts alike.
"I can understand if you are that weird and concerned about kid’s weight maybe handing out boxes of raisins or bags of carrot sticks or something," wrote Eve Vawter of Mommyish. "I can see MAYBE hanging a sign on your door that reads 'I will not be handing out candy this year.' But to fat-shame little kids who come to your door trick or treating? That’s a whole other level of evil. Way to make all the kids feel like garbage, lady."
Dr Katie Gordon, assistant professor of clinical psychology at North Dakota State University, told Valley News Live: "It's just that kind of thing that for some kids, if they're vulnerable, might trigger major problems. That's not something that someone can judge - the health of someone - just by looking at them."
What do you think of Cheryl's letter?
