http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/15/sports/15girls.html
This was a great article in today’s NY Times about programs designed to switch up some of the deep gender divides on the playground and in sports. I felt that some of the posted comments missed the boat, so of course I had to add my two cents:
“After reading these responses, I am compelled to respond. I agree that some, ‘healthy neglect’ is a good thing for kids and recreation, but letting, ‘kids be kids’ isn’t as easy as it used to be. The gender divides perpetuated by toy manufacturers and our commercial culture are more entrenched than ever. This article was about opening doors and increasing options for kids. That is a good thing. I applaud the teacher who encouraged the girls to switch their game to “gym teacher”. It gives the girls a new way to think about their game. Finally, I have worked with Sports4Kids and it is actually a great model for engaging boys who aren’t drawn to the competition of sports, but like to play.”
