The more things change, the more they stay the same…… You know, at a much earlier stage in my life this used to seem quite probable and somewhat made sense. Change quite often is gradual and happens silently; often times without apparent notice throughout our lives. Some visual examples of this are the undesirable appearances of grey hairs or receding hairlines, crows-feet and wrinkles on our faces, various forms of degenerative arthritic aches and pains, etc., etc. These changes are all to be expected as we personally progress in life, and are for the most part, beyond our control unless corrective measures are sought to help remedy them.
However, in the past five to ten years I have noticed a very drastic, abrupt change. Not in the particular areas just mentioned, but in our society in general and predominantly with our youth. A change that worries me, down-right scares me, and brings great concern. It has to do with the revolution of technological gadgetry. I am literally astounded and in dismay of the large number of studies revealing a long list of repercussions and detrimental conditions facing our youth due to the inundation of technological influences. Most recently, increased incorrigibility in the home between children and their parents has been linked with the increased amount of monitor time versus the lack of interactive family time. Don’t get me wrong, technology certainly has its place and obviously can be good; but as history would prove - too much of a good thing can be a very bad thing. More and more young people are “tuned in” for the purpose of tuning out and “connected” in order to remain disconnected. In the long-term we will most certainly witness heightened degrees of social ineptness in our society.
As parents, grandparents, and/or guardians that truly care; we have an obligation to keep our youth healthy and on a well-balanced life track by reinforcing moderation in certain areas. Though you may perceive me to be a bit biased here, I am so very grateful that organizations such as Camp Daggett still offer quality, wholesome recreational programming that does not require technology as a necessary component. The summer camp and adventure programs encourage their program participants to socially engage, therefore; enhancing and improving various levels of personal growth. Our programs help plant positive seeds for the short-term and overall long-term life returns. Ironically enough, this type of programming has been around for many, many moons and still gets the same great results. What may seem to have become “old school” over the years, has in fact withstood the test of time and become even more unique and essential for proper development of our young people in these modern times.
I encourage all of us to do our part and if you need assistance in helping to do so, Camp Daggett is simply a phone call away.
For the good of our youth,
Brent A. Marlatt - Executive Director
Camp Daggett Blog