Leave no childhood behind

In the age of No Child Left Behind and failing schools, it is not surprising that yesterday's New York Times Magazine focused on the current plight of American children. The magazine highlighted many disturbing trends, though none as crucial as the exploration of how little childhood our nation's children are actually able to enjoy.

Today's children spend more time in the classroom and completing homework than many of their parents spend working. Johnny and Jane have to spend most of their waking hours pouring over textbooks, leaving little time for other childhood essentials like athletics, art and even make-believe.

Add in the rise of charter schools like those affiliated with the Knowledge Is Power Program, where class is held from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday with half-days on Saturdays, and it is a wonder that children know how to play "Simon Says."

With the recent release of Finding Neverland, a movie focusing on the wonders of childhood and imagination, it is appalling to think of how society has evolved in the past century. Children are no longer encouraged to imagine their own worlds and fantasies; instead they have the stale, cubicle-focused corporate worldview shoved down their throats.

Obviously this country's education system needs to be revamped, but at what cost? Textbooks do not teach social skills, nor do they promote creativity. There is no argument, academics matter; however, they should not make up the entirety of a child's life. Recess is just as important as math. Four-square, anyone?