think of the children

think of the children

Consider how a particular course of action will affect young people. The phrase is often used in a panicked way, to draw attention or support to a cause. Think of the children—if they don't have a park to play in, they will turn to unsavory activities instead. We need to band together to discourage drunk driving. Think of the children!
See also: children, of, think
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • how about
  • how/what about...?
  • from my cold, dead hands
  • (one's) best foot forward
  • best foot forward
  • eggs is eggs
  • (as) sure as eggs (is eggs)
  • game on
  • How long is a piece of string?
  • kicking and screaming
References in periodicals archive
'Don't think of big world leaders - think of the children who need health care
Look: Working with Nynke
Stop to think of the children who won't enjoy a warm dinner on Christmas Day.
Damien Lane: Spread joy to kids at Xmas
The council does not think of the children. It is obviously trying to save money and cut costs.
Letter: Your Say - My son would be devastated by closure
So whoever you are taking your dog for a walk, please clean it up - and think of the children who have to walk to school in that area.
Mucky pups
I say to social workers: "Think of the children first.
Mirror M@ilbox: IN BRIEF
Project co-ordinator Sue Wileman, who works in the systems department, said: "It's nice to think of the children at Christmas."
Jaguar staff throw cash at Snowball; SNOWBALL