The Intelligencer / Wheeling News-Register
By Bethany A. Romanek
April 6, 2008
Twenty years ago, a day like today would have seen local playgrounds overflowing with children of all ages, eager to get outside and shake off the winter blues.
Now, however, youngsters often opt to stay inside to listen to their iPods, text message their friends and play games or surf the Internet on their computer.
And it appears the lack of physical activity is taking its toll on youth, as childhood obesity rates are soaring nationwide.
David R. Hanna, department chairman for athletic training at Wheeling Jesuit University, said the burden of getting children to be active needs to fall on parents.
“Parents can set an example,” Hanna said. “Obesity is obviously a problem and in our state, we are one of the worst in the country with obesity rates. ... A 5-year-old can’t drive to the park or get to the park. It’s up to the parents — healthy eating choices and healthy daily activity choices.