Stunning Stats about Kids reported by the Wall Street Journal (Chester E. Finn, Jr., “The Case for Saturday School”, Mar. 20-21, p. W1) 

1.  ”The typical young American, upon turning 18, will have spent just 9% of his or her hours on this planet under the school roof (and that assumes full-day kindergarten and perfect attendance) versus 91% spent elsewhere.”

2. “American youngsters now devote an astounding 7.5 hours per day to ‘using entertainment media’ (including TV, internet, cellphones and videogames). That translates to about 53 hours a week – verus 30 hours in school.”

What does this have to do with food?  How about food for thought? From what and whom are kids learning?  Moms and dads, it is time to notice how much time is truly dedicated to a solid education and what is being fed into the brains, the minds, of your kids.  Only 9% of time in school?  Where are they the rest of the day?  TV, internet, cellphones and videogames need to represent a very small percentage of how kids spend their time.  What happened to books, board and card games, playing outdoors, and interacting with friends  in-person for social, physical and intelligent non-passive development?  It is no wonder obesity is an issue – kids aren’t moving much for at least 7.5 hours a day – just the tip of this iceberg. 

Until your kids have grown up and are on their own, they are your responsibility.  We know you care so please, help improve these statistics. Start by saying “No” to entertainment media influences. 

… for the health of your family,
ellen and sally