Most parents are aware that children today do a lot of communicating through the internet. A number of interactive websites such as MySpace.com have become very popular. Like most things in this life, it isn't ALL good. Because there has been some abuse of these sites both by young people and by adults, there are people trying to limit their use.
Here, the LA Times reports a bill that would attempt to ban these sites from schools and public libraries.
First of all, many schools have already blocked access to these sites just to keep students "on task" if nothing else.
Here is a provocative article defending the use of such sites by children.
My position on this issue is that these trends are impossible to halt through simply passing laws that ban their use at school . It's like the current laws banning the sale of pop at school. It isn't that big of deal to ban pop at school. BUT, does anyone really think that this will change obesity patterns in society?
Parents must continue to monitor and be a part of their children's daily lives in a positive way. And, schools must support those efforts. That includes monitoring when possible what they put in their minds and what they put in their bodies. And still, children will push the limits and parents and schools will not always be looking over their shoulder.
Let's hope the values and ethics you have taught them as a parent will carry them through the day.
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3 comments:
Good statement on giving parents the responsibility of teaching a child values and ethics! Schools should be there to challenge them in various academic and social ways, but ultimately the family (defined in various terms) is where children will begin to build their life foundation.
Banning the sell of pop at schools will not solve the obesity problem - but it sure doesn't hurt to offer healthy option. Sometimes my highschoolers are at school from 7:30 in the morning till 9 or 10 at night. I'd much rather them grab a juice or water than a soda. And by not offering pop, the schools can send a message that it isn't good for you.
Also - in regard to the schools role in obesity - since when do little kids need a snack between breakfast and an 11:00 lunch? Our society promotes the idea that we have to eat all the time.
Since smaller children have smaller tummies, they cannot eat as much at one time and often get hungry between meals (they also burn more energy throughout their days). Also, some toddlers or preschoolers are finicky eaters and may not have eaten all of their breakfast. In addition, it has been shown to help obesity if a person consumes many small meals throughout the day versus 3 large meals. Maybe the daycares are onto something!
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