Where have the athletes gone? Sport specialization, cuts in elementary and middle school physical education and after-school athletics, plus video games, contribute to a lack of athleticism in our youth. The sandlot is gone and has been taken over by online gaming.
Not only are our youth becoming less athletic, they also are becoming socially awkward. Nothing is better athletically or socially for a group of kids than playing any sport on the sandlot or in a cul-de-sac or on the street. We need kids to play more sports and, most importantly, play unorganized sports.
Obesity of our children is at an all-time high and we can make a difference. Parents, get outside and get a game going. Teach the kids games, and within that game they learn valuable life skills as well as becoming healthier.
Korey Kier
Vancouver
