“Kids have changed.”

Over the last years we have heard this statement repeatedly from educators, parents, and the media. But have children really changed? In reality, it is society, parents, and schools that have changed. These changes have transformed the way our children play, interact, and learn. This has created issues beyond poor behavior.

“The United States faces an epidemic of unparalleled proportions,” write Gina Fontana and Ralph Barrett in this provocative call-to-action. “We have raised a generation of socially, cognitively, and physically underdeveloped children, leaving parents and teachers struggling to find solutions.”

What is one thing early childhood educators can do to ensure that children are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in today’s society? Bring back the creative arts! Music, art, and dancing “allow children to be creative, take risks, and express themselves in innovative ways.” The whole body of a child must be involved in learning, not just their brain, for the child to develop into a productive, well-rounded citizen. Read more here.