Moms Talk Q & A: What Happened to Free Time?

Each week the council will answer a question on parenthood posed to them by readers or another member of council.

This week, Moms Council members address the issue of free time and the question whether kids' lives are too structured.

I know this question popped into my head many times over the years as I watched siblings drive their children to music lessons, karate class, soccer practice or whatever activity of the moment. It seems that in the interest of keeping children busy, the only people busier are the parents.

Times have certainly changed. When I grew up summer days consisted of pick-up baseball games with friends, swiming, whatever – all unorganized. Of course, neighborhoods weren't as spread out, so it wasn't hard finding enough kids to get a game going.

So I figured I'd throw this out there and see what parents have to say.

Kim Zannetti: You seem to hear more and more parents talking about this.  I think it is something that parents have to be aware of. While we think it is important for our children to have activities that allow them to learn a new skill, interact with peers, and get exercise, it is also critical that they have down time.

It is scary when kids don't even know how to "play." They need someone to organize something. What ever happened to a pick-up game of basketball or "kick the can?"