Do kids just go outside and play anymore?

[Frankie117]

I think this problem lies mostly in the suburbs, since usually all of the surrounding area is houses, there really isn't that much to do. Most kids in suburban environments feel trapped by this, and instead get sucked in to TV and video games.

As a kid, myself, as long as the other kids in the trailer park spent all of our time out playing in the woods, or maybe playing baseball or football in the "yard". Of course, we had no curfews, so it was not uncommon to stay out there until the early morning hours (we used to hike for miles and miles...just to see what was our there..). Of course, we all went our separate ways when I was 8 years old, and I ended up in the suburbs. I was bored out of my mind...but eventually I learned to cope...too crammed in to play sports....and we couldn't make loud noises any more...it felt like we were imprisoned. But now, years later its rather easy to look back on what it used to be like....completely understandable of today's kids.

[Ldunn1001]

I understand during the week when parents are working and its late getting home, especially in the winter months but during summer, daylight saving time (when it stays lighter later), and also on the weekends, then I would expect to see children outside running around but just hardly ever do unless there is something going on, such as a festival or function of some sort. Sad because I hope that ALL of Atlanta area is not like this. Maybe we were just looking in the wrong area.

[mg83]

I don't have kids, but I imagine it's kind of scary to send kids outside to play in the streets... depending on where you live. Checking the state's sex offender registry often is really a MUST. If you have a nice-sized, fenced in back yard, even better.

[plessthanpointohfive]

Like I mentioned...go house hunting during nice weather and look for the activity. If there is a park within walking distance of much of the neighborhood it's a good thing. Many parks you have to drive to get there. But, if it's smack in the middle of the neighborhood then it will get walked to, biked to, etc and you will see a lot more kids out.

[Ldunn1001]

Good idea. Don't get me wrong, I would never just want my kids to run the streets but I think it's a shame that kids can't, or don't, get out any play in the neighborhood, where you KNOW where they are and can keep an eye on them, etc. like we used to do when I was a kid. Those were the good ole days and I feel sorry for kids that get stuck in the house all day just because they have no other children to play with. It's just sad and I have watched my children experience this, much more now than even 10 years ago.