WHEELING — Twenty years ago, a day like today would have seen local playgrounds overflowing with children of all ages, eager to get outside and shake off the winter blues.
Now, however, youngsters often opt to stay inside to listen to their iPods, text message their friends and play games or surf the Internet on their computer.
And it appears the lack of physical activity is taking its toll on youth, as childhood obesity rates are soaring nationwide.
David R. Hanna, department chairman for athletic training at Wheeling Jesuit University, said the burden of getting children to be active needs to fall on parents.
That’s easier said than done for some families, however, especially when both parents work. Hanna said it’s easy for these moms and dads to get into the habit of placing a youngster in front of a television while they make dinner.
He also thinks technology plays a huge part in the abandonment of play yards.
“Parents can set an example,” Hanna said. “Obesity is obviously a problem and in our state, we are one of the worst in the country with obesity rates. ... A 5-year-old can’t drive to the park or get to the park. It’s up to the parents — healthy eating choices and healthy daily activity choices.
“I think the biggest thing we have to worry about with children being inactive is they become overweight,” Hanna added. “That’s a big issue with today’s children. ... It strengthens their bones and it increases their self-esteem when playing with other kids, and it decreases stress as well.”
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Looking back on his own childhood growing up in Wheeling, Hanna said he remembers a time when he was in high school and it was impossible to find an empty playground or a free basketball court. Now, however, Hanna said it really sticks out when a playground is full.
“The biggest thing is it should be fun,” Hanna said.
“The No. 1 job for a kid is to play, and they learn about themselves and their boundaries. Make it fun and it coincides with quality time spent.
“We need to stress it’s such a quality time, an intimate time and a connecting time with the parents — and children truly need that time,” Hanna added.
“Take them fishing, take them to events — there are all kinds of things around here in the parks and downtown, and it builds a stronger family bond.”
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