Soccer MomsThe Downfall of Youth?

Ethan McCoski, Josh Petter, David Pynchon, and Nick Richard

The Downfall

• Physical play is only one facet of a child's development.• Overbearing parents lead to concentrated cultivation

rather then a well rounded enjoyable childhood.• Kids spend more time in structured activities because

parents are working longer hours and there is an increase in single parent households.

• Free play is the essence of childhood, without it childhood is destroyed.

The Savior • Children historically had to work in fields,

mines and factories. The nostalgic view of a free childhood existed only for a short time.

• In the past, privileged children were provided with more opportunities to engage in activities.

• With change in culture and technology, we cannot expect children’s play to remain the same.

• It is neither bad nor good that things kids want to do are changing with time.

• Research supports the idea that structured play is just as important as free play.• Structured play helps kids learn the values and

beliefs of their culture.• It also helps kids become more productive

members of society.

The Downfall or The Savior

• Soccer mom’s are portrayed as putting the interest of her family, and most importantly her children, ahead of her own.

• A lot of soccer moms end up driving their children away by not letting them express themselves.

• Structured activities keep children away from excessive video games and help reduce childhood obesity.

• Obviously there are valid arguments for both sides and the decision is ultimately up to the parents.