Did you ever wonder where the wonder of childhood went? It seems as if it began to wane in the late 20th century, and has now all but disappeared. Certainly, the magic of discovery still exists, but only through a child’s first two or three years. After that, building blocks, playsets, and stuffed animals are quickly replaced by computers, video games, and (gulp!) cell phones.
Moreover, if you think that the sight of a pre-schooler walking around talking on a cell phone is sickening, just wait. It won’t be surprising if cribs soon come with built-in televisions sets and DVD players. Hey, why not? Most kids today have computers and TV’s in their bedrooms, and there’s already a channel just for newborns (?!). When we were kids, most of us had only one TV in our homes, and nobody had cell phones, personal computers, or the Internet; and yet, we had it all!
Actually, there was one thing that we didn’t have, and that was the epidemic of childhood obesity and diabetes. The peculiar thing is that we ate candy and breakfast cereals that were so sweet that sugar was among their main ingredients; in fact, it was the first word in many of the cereals’ names. We also ate cookies, candy, and white bread (slathered with butter), and drank pop – regular, not diet – and full-fat milk. In spite of all of this, however, it was rare to find a kid who was overweight, or one who even knew what diabetes was.
So, how can we reconcile that scenario with the fact that, despite all of the new awareness about nutritious eating, today’s kids are getting unhealthier all of the time? The answer is simple. We played all day long – and not on computers. No-o! We were always outside riding our bikes, roller skating, swimming, climbing trees, swinging, and playing dodge ball, kickball, baseball, basketball, and football. Even on rainy days when we were confined to our houses, we used our imaginations to make up indoor games.
Of course, the technological advances that have been made are wonders themselves, and essential to our modern lifestyles. The only drawback is that, because kids are exposed to them immediately upon entering this world, they often end up getting more virtual than actual physical activity. This situation has left many parents desperately looking for ways to get their kids excited about playing outside the way they did. If you’re wondering how to accomplish such a feat, a play set from GazeboCreations.com will put the answer right in your own backyard.
With features that include clubhouses, slides, rope ladders, sling and tire swings, trapezes, monkey bars, rock walls, sandboxes, play stations, and more, a play set from GazeboCreations.com will have your kids climbing, running, jumping, and using their imaginations every day. In short, it will bring back the wonder of being a kid.
Visit GazeboCreations.com and choose a pre-designed play set, or customize one, by selecting from dozens of fun options. All play sets are made from solid cedar and redwood, and are designed to last a lifetime. To contact a customer service professional or consultant, call 1-888-293-2339, or e-mail cs@gazebocreations.com.