USDA Encourages Grandparents to Read Gov't-Produced Bedtime Story About Healthy Eating to Their Grandkids

The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Monday published some tips for grandparents to "help kids develop good eating habits" — and one of them advises reading of a government-produced "bedtime story" to young children.

The post on the USDA website, written by Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion nutritionist Trish Britten, begins by explaining that "grandkids are a grandparent's greatest treasure."

A post on the USDA's website encourages grandparents to read a government-produced bedtime story to their grandchildren. (Image source: Shutterstock)

"From time to time during grandchildren’s young lives, grandparents may have the pleasure of being their caregiver," the post states. "Show them how to be healthy, including how to make healthy food choices–an important way grandparents show how much they love and care about their grandchildren."

It then details different ways grandparents can encourage children to develop healthy eating habits.

"Discuss likes and dislikes of different foods and talk about what they eat at school or at home. Involve grandkids in selecting and preparing foods for meals, and offer the same foods to everyone," the post says. "Avoid making different dishes to please young, fussy eaters."

"Reward them with your attention," it adds. "Hugs are much better than sweet treats."

[sharequote align="center"]"Hugs are much better than sweet treats."[/sharequote]

Finally, after advising the planting of a vegetable garden, the post suggests grandparents read a government-produced bedtime story to their grandkids or fill out activity sheets.

"Show your grandchild games, activity sheets and other fun ways to learn about good nutrition at MyPlate Kids’ Place," it says. "For a bedtime story, read 'The Two Bite Club.'"

According to the Free Beacon, the story concludes with a cat conveying happiness after discovering healthy eating habits.

“I am so proud of myself. I tried some new foods and I learned about My Plate,” the cat said at the end of the book.

The USDA post has since generated controversy, with upset individuals turning to social media to express their opposition.

[blackbirdpie url="https://twitter.com/josephhage/status/451003626543390720"]

[blackbirdpie url="https://twitter.com/McGinniss1/status/451080194980188160"]

On Tuesday, talk show host Glenn Beck discussed the controversy on his radio program.

“This used to be against the law. It’s propaganda. It used to be everybody – especially on the left – was against propaganda,” Beck said. “Everybody is for kids having healthy eating. Let’s stop with the government propaganda. If there is really something out there, let the doctors put all this together… Governments should not be selling products. Ever.”

This post has been updated to include additional information.

(H/T: Free Beacon)

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