I must admit I am not the most technologically savvy individual. I do use the

internet out of necessity, work and I enjoy surfing sites of interest. I often play on

the big fish game sites, bedazzle, etc. they are entertaining, fun, relaxing and at

times even challenging.

I understand the fascination computers play for children. They are an integral

part of their lives from an early age. In many cases involved in the school

curriculum. Is this a positive or to their detriment? Creativity seems to be

disappearing. I may be aging myself, but we were given old cartons which

became trains, blankets which became forts and dare I say it, toilet paper rolls

which became telephones. We, also, came up with many other ideas for these

items. Self-expression and using your imagination was encouraged. Today

computers don’t allow for this aspect of the maturity and growth of a child’s

mind. Too much is being done for them on these technical wizards.

Several other drawbacks come to mind with this advancement of the modern age.

Young people spend so much time sitting behind a computer desk they rarely

exercise. Hopscotch and skipping ropes seem to have gone by the wayside.

What about a good old fashioned game of tag. You’re it!

Social skills are waning as the screen has become their friend. Recent studies

indicate children and teens have fewer friends than ever before due to their

interest in online endeavors. Of course, that brings up another point the peril to

our youth if they aren’t properly monitored and socialize on the computer with

risky individuals. I shiver at the thought.

So while computers are a marvel and wonderful tool for the future, it seems sad

and unfortunate they have replaced some of life’s simpler enjoyments. Perhaps,

we can reverse this before too many more years go by. What wonderful benefits

for us all if both worlds could converge.