Weekly Reader: War on Childhood Obesity, Weird Things You Say to Your Kids, a New Coney Island, More

2/22/10 - By Elizabeth

Back by popular demand are our belated links posts thanks to new contributor, Elizabeth. Have a fun link to share or an important story other parents shouldn't miss? Send it to news@mommypoppins.com

Just because the last time you sat down to read a newspaper was when "pooped out" still meant tired to you, that doesn't mean you can't stay up to date with what's going on. We've rounded up the top stories you don't want to miss from the NYC media this week. Read about new plans for Coney Island, Fashion Week, the dangling baby story, the weirdest thing you've ever said to your kid and more.

 

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Shiny, New Coney: Island Mayor Bloomberg unveiled plans for a new amusement park at Astroland—nix that, it’s called Luna Park now—and it includes 19 new rides, some of which will be ready by Memorial Day. The best part? Entrance is free—you only pay to ride the rides. Get a sneak peek at where your kids will be begging to go this summer.

Childhood Obesity Blowout: It seems that war against childhood obesity has officially been declared. It’s about time, considering at least 31% of New York kids are packing extra pounds. Recently, we heard a riveting plea from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver at the TED Conference to “teach every child about food.” (Watch the video – you’ll thank us.) Then First Lady Michelle Obama launched her “Let’s Move” program. Now, just says after a hospital procedure, former President Bill Clinton took to a podium in Harlem to express his concern for childhood obesity. For information on making changes in your family, check out the New York State Department of Health’s Activ8Kids! Program.

For Moms Only: Fashion Week Whether you're a fashion mom or a fashion faux pas, play along and check out what the hot trends for next Fall will be with the CBS News Fashion Week report for a breakdown of the biggest trends.

Kids and Meds: A recent New York Magazine article posts a question that has troubled and frustrated parents around the country: Are too many kids taking psychiatric meds? Surprisingly, this article doesn’t take either side.

Dangling Baby A-OK: Nearly every mother in the tri-state area gasped when they viewed this picture of 7-month-old Zaniyah dangling outside of an apartment building that was on fire. The New York Daily News followed up with an exclusive interview with the child and mother. Thankfully, everyone is happy and healthy.

The Weirdest Thing You’ve Said To Your Child: The Motherlode Blog over at the New York Times has a question for you: “What is the oddest thing you have ever found yourself saying to your children?” Responses include: "If you're going to rub your naked butt on your sister's pillow, then you're the one who has to do the laundry." And “The kitty doesn't like Cheerios, honey.” Golden moments, people.

Photo Credit: Maya Tucker