Question

Writing a letter to the editor related to the editorials

Answer 1

Play is all but absent in our children’s over-programmed lives, as Marco della Cava notes in his story (“Calendar Is Blank on May 22,” 5/16/06). Free time needs to comeback into our kids’ lives, and it needs to happen now.There is a nationwide scarcity of play, and we are beginning to see a stark difference between children who play and children who don’t.Kids who play are healthier.Kids who play are less likely to be obese and develop obesity-related health problems suchas diabetes and heart disease.Kids who play do better in school.Kids who play develop the cognitive skillsthat are positively linked to learning and academic performance.Kids who play, play well as adults.Kids who play build their confidence and lear n the social skills that help them become happy,well-adjusted adults.I recently participated in a build sponsored by KaBOOM! to help ensure that there is a playground within walking distance of every child in America. Through efforts like this, along witha team of dedicated adults willing to advocate forplay in as many ways possible, we can make play a part of every child’s life. It isour obligation to ensure that the next generation is as healthy as itcan be, mentally and physically, andwe can start byprioritizing play.Sincerely,Jane DoeAnytown, USA