Final answer:
A counterclaim might assert that advertisements provide educational value, contribute to children's understanding of societal norms, influence parental purchases, and support free children's programming, suggesting a need for responsible advertising combined with parental regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
An appropriate counterclaim to the argument that advertisements are harmful to children's development and unnecessary because children are not consumers could be that advertisements can have educational value and promote social and cognitive awareness. For example, ads can introduce children to new products and ideas, stimulate curiosity, and indirectly teach them about the marketplace and economic principles. Advertising can also be seen as a source of information about societal norms and values, providing children with an understanding of the world around them.
Moreover, one could argue that while direct consumerism by children may be limited, they do influence household purchasing decisions. Parents often take into consideration their children's preferences when buying toys, clothes, or food, which makes advertising to children a legitimate business strategy. The counterclaim might also propose that instead of outright bans, responsible advertising directed at children coupled with parental guidance and regulation could be a balanced approach.
Lastly, advertisements can support free and low-cost children's programming. Without the funds generated by advertisements, many beloved children's shows may not be able to operate or would need to find alternative funding, which could limit the accessibility of quality content for all children.