Educational Media Reviews Online

This eye opening documentary studies the high price that families are paying when the value of free play is not understood and, therefore, doesn't happen often enough. These well intentioned caregivers want their child to be competitive in a world where it pays to compete. They are taking control of their child's lives by over scheduling their day with organized sports obligations, all while feeling the urgency to track their every move. Cell phones, beepers, GPS systems, and web cams are all part of the new technology that is keeping children and their whereabouts familiar to parents who are overly hyper-sensitive to their child's daily happenings. In return, this constant nurturing and monitoring is causing both parents and children an abundance of anxiety and stress. It has been reported that this type of pressure may lead to Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, depression, and other types of behavioral disorders. Out of constant worry for their child's welfare parents are traumatizing their offspring by not allowing them to develop into well balanced individuals. Studies have shown that children require equal amounts of organized and free play. Those who have these opportunities have advanced interpersonal, emotional, creative, and negotiating skills, and can problem solve on their own. This is critical for survival. The video quality is excellent and the script moves along keeping the attention of the audience. This resource is highly recommended and would be of great value to those who have the responsibility of developing a parenting collection.