Technology


	EDITORIAL

IS TECHNOLOGY HURTING OUR CHILDREN?

I believe so, especially in the area of physical activity. Today, more than ever before, there is a need for strong, well-funded physical education and sports programs in our schools. Adolescent obesity is rampant. And if you haven't figured out why, let yours truly make it simple for you: excessive use of computers, cell phones, video games - technology in general.

In essence, these kids are not doing anything physical. On the contrary, they're at home talking on the cell phone, playing virtual reality games, texting a friend, surfing the internet, while munching on junk food. It gives me the "twitters" to think what the adolescent obesity figures will be like regarding our next generation of teenagers.

One of my colleagues laughingly said, "Just as we are to support 'No child left behind,' we should also promote 'No child with a big behind.'"

Please don't misunderstand me. Computers are a great resource for finding information immediately. They are also tremendous learning aids in the school environment. Notice I said "aids;" they will never replace the "humanistic" factor: The Classroom Teacher or Coach.

We all remember our favorite teachers and coaches who hugged us when we were sad or lost a big game, patted us on the back when we scored an "A" or the winning touchdown, and kicked us in the "derriere" when we were slacking in the classroom or on the field of play. Technology can never take the place of such wholesome "human interaction."

Now back to my original point. Parents, teachers and coaches, alike, must demand well-funded physical education and sports programs to offset the physical complacency that technology has bred in our youth. Of course, my sport is wrestling which produces the finest, most well-conditioned athletes you will ever find. But not every kid is meant to be a wrestler. Get them participating in athletics, be it basketball, football, baseball, softball, track, cross country, soccer, hockey, tennis, volleyball, cycling, swimming, lacrosse, rowing, dance, cheerleading, golf, etc. - any physical activity. There's a plethora of sports from which to choose. Surely, your child can find one to his or her liking.

Involvement is the key. Winning or losing is secondary to their physical development, which will produce healthy kids with longer life-expectancies.

Technology's "Wii" is not the answer to fitness; WE are - parents, teachers, and coaches - by enticing our children to turn off their computers and turn on to physical activity.

Of course, I would suggest wrestling.