One benefit of the recent environment is
Kids spending more time outside and playing in their neighborhoods. One study found that in 1971 80% of 7 and 8 year olds went to school on their own. By 1990 only 9% did. I don’t think my parents drove me to school once unless I had a doctors appointment. If I missed the bus i would ride my bike to school even though my mom was at home. I also learned about the birds and the bees, poker and French kissing on the school bus.
Another study concluded there is a 50% decline in the number of 9-12 year old ls who spent time in outdoor activities between 1997 and 2003. The author found “fear of strangers” as a big reason.
Bikes and skateboard sales have been very strong. Hopefully kids get to enjoy just being outside more. With many camps close this summer it may be an opportunity for kids to get out in their own communities and spend some unstructured time without their parents hanging over them. [Post edited by GreenvilleVT at 07/01/2020 07:20AM]
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Posted: 07/01/2020 at 07:10AM