We are constantly bombarded by advertising and media. Everywhere we go someone is trying to sell us something-at the bus stop, on TV, even in school. In fact, there are people who spend their whole day thinking of ways that they can sell things, specifically to kids. There are dozens of professional advertising firms that focus on how to get kids to buy things, and how to get kids to influence their parents to buy things.

In Eric Schlosser's book Fast Food Nation, James McNeal, an expert on marketing to children and author of the book Kids as Customers, says, "The key [for marketers] is to get children to see [an advertisement] in much the same way they see Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa," as a trusted source of authority. McNeal shows how the advertising experts classify the different types of nagging to parents that is promoted to kids. Pleading Nagging Accompanied by repetition of words, like "please" or "Mom, Mom, Mom." Persistent Nagging Involves constant requests for the coveted product. Demonstrative Nagging The most high-risk-often characterized by full-blown tantrums in public places- breath holding, tears, refusal to leave the store. Forceful Nagging Extremely pushy and may include subtle threats like, Then I'm gonna go ask Dad." Sugar-Coated Nagging A promise of affection in return for a purchase and may rely on seemingly heart-felt declarations like, You're the best Mom in the world." Threatening Nagging Youthful forms of blackmail, such as vows of eternal hatred and of running away if something isn't bought. Pity Nagging Claims that the child will be heartbroken, teased, or socially stunted if the parent refuses to buy a certain item.

This type of scientific breakdown shows just how much effort goes into marketing to kids. And a lot of that marketing is for products that may be unhealthy for children in terms of healthy eating and physical activity.