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  Soccer Moms

  "Kids are individuals.  Listen to them, and they will tell you what they need."  

  I partially agree.  But, many of these "needs" are based on perception. If their friends have cell phones, i-pods, play soccer, and only take family vacations at a manicured resort, then the kid will also "need" to. In my opinion, parents should help children to occasionally break away from this "safety net" created by structured activities and spending our time in "built" environments. For example, I have a friend that won't allow her kid to attend church summer camp because of "stranger danger." Another is afraid of their child contracting West Nile Virus if they walk in the woods. This robs the children of their ability to explore, take chances, make decisions on their own, and develop self-confidence.  Not to mention that appreciation of nature comes from direct experience. For instance, my son gained much more from hearing owls hoot in the nighttime woods than he ever did while visiting the zoo.  He also gained much more of an appreciation for aquatic environments after catching his first Bass than he did from seeing a fish tank at a local exhibit. As a result, he's comfortable sleeping outside in the woods, knows how to safely maneuver canoe, and will handle a worm or a fish without hesitation. Meanwhile, some of his friends just opt to stay shore or at home......On E.O. Wilson calls for kids to be set free outside, scripted activities be damned posted 1 year, 8 months ago 6 Responses