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Last spring I was applying for summer programs and, during a phone interview, actually said "kids these days." I am twenty two. The man interviewing me made a few jokes and we continued with our conversation.
Afterward I got onto my computer and started reading.

I remember being eight years old and standing at the end of my dock with my sister early on weekend mornings, before my parents would get out of bed. It was summer, and with the ice off the lake, we wanted to fish. We stuck the end of the fishing pole in the water and waited.

There were a few times we caught fish, out of pure luck, and brought the fish, still attached to the fishing pole, into my parent's room. For a second my mom would freak out, and then it would be time for breakfast.

I grew up on a lake, without nets or ropes or a lifeguard. I was sent outdoors everyday and everyday the water and forests became a new world. We had enough windows that my mom could check on us from time to time, but what's the big deal with a few scrapped knees and dirty clothes? Fifteen years later, a lot is wrong with that.

The "kids these days" I was referencing were the over programmed, over protected, video game freaks we call children. You may recognize them on the streets; they're smart, witty and half your size. But although they may have every minute scheduled and organized like they keep up with Real Simple magazine, researchers are beginning to discover the negative side effects of this lifestyle.
Children are no longer getting the unstructured time they need to just be kids. This time is crucial for their development and not allowing it can lead to problems down the road. When allowed to work at their own pace, kids develop skills to communicate with others, use their imagination, and learn to be okay on their own. Some parents believe that they are giving their child every opportunity, while they may actually be hindering their child's future problem solving skills. Have you ever heard of a burnt out seven year old? Well, it's happening.

What we need to look at is the decision making process for the parent. How much is too much for your child? Where are the limits between letting your child run wild and walking them through every scheduled minute of the day? Why has our society given up on standard play time? I think the only way to alter this downward spiral is to change the mind set of our kids as the "leaders of tomorrow." Tomorrow they will still be in pre-school; give it twenty years.

Learn more about this author, Adriann Leveille.
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