The lack of open spaces for children to use as playgrounds is becoming a big social issue Many of us are confined to the walls of houses, alienated from the thrill of playing in mud grounds with the urbane- development wiping out open areas quickly . The bond of friendship from play sessions, the art of winning and losing , the feeling of togetherness - no classroom can teach these life-lessons than playgrounds ! We need developments not at the cost of sacrificing childhood !
The kids today are mostly glued to television, laptops or cell phones given the vast features the Internet offer. But if not careful , the dangers involved are many. Lack of physical exercise creates weak personalities prone to illnesses . Playing outside helps gain Vitamin D from sunlight and maintain good health .
Interaction with nature is integral to humans; to imbibe invaluable truths it teaches! Even the technology man has developed has its basis in nature. To experience the little joys of going after a butterfly or hurling a stone at a mango tree , one must venture out from the virtual game world!
The stress of never-ending homework, exams and projects thrust upon us leave no room for play or relaxation. Is this system beneficial, where only marks and not the real calibre matter? The knowledge gained through enquiring, exploring and playing , without mugging up are life-long lessons. On playgrounds we do not fear to err , we learn from our mistakes . Today, do we get to enjoy our childhood , a cool breeze or the fresh smell of Earth after rainfall without worrying about the homework or exams?
The safety concerns too are crucial in the diminishing number of playgrounds . In the degraded social scenario even kids can't move around unmonitored ! Thus they resort to playing indoors increasing the risk of childhood obesity!
The camaraderie, the brotherhood is missing in this era ! It is never too late ; we need to light up the spark of mutual affection ! The system urges us to step on another and succeed , but true success lies in taking those around us along while leading forward !
Rather than being moulded into robots , we wish to explore , experience real knowledge and succeed in a stress-free world ! We need our playgrounds back as the first step; the natural platform to transform us into responsible practical citizens of tomorrow in the most natural way !
(The author is a Class IX student)
