CARU Reviews Ad for 'Over the Hedge' Videogame

We all know that small children have a hard time distinguishing between reality and fantasy. But what about the difference between real news and fake news? The makers of the 'Over the Hedge' videogame may have crossed the line by simulating a newscast to promote the new game. Read the document below for details from the Childrens Advertising Review Unit (CARU).

"Heroes"

I found this ad in National Geographic Kids, a magazine my 8-year-old nephew reads. Despite the fact that by the age of eight, most children are able to distinguish between fantastical and real-life violence, I feel this ad goes overboard by glorifying violence. These two demonic creatures stand head to head, ready to attack one another. Superimposed over the battle scene is the word "Heroes." In the increasingly violent world we live in, we need to provide our children with responsible role models--not rabid robot killers.

As a side note, the rating for this particular game ranges from "Everyone" to "Teen." Its hard to justify its placement in a magazine that targets 8-year-olds.

Kids on Sugar

It's an age old trick. Kids love games. This version of "Where's Waldo" crosses the line by making it seem like these candy snacks are an everyday part of school life. No wonder all these children in the ad are going bonkers; they are loaded up with sugar!

Fruity Fibbing

A lot of kids seeing this ad might think these candies are made of fruit. After all, the fruit pictured here seem to think Mr. Twistable is pretty great. Let's take a look at the ingredients though. There are four types of sugar listed before any fruit is even mentioned. It would be better if there were bags of sugar swooning instead.