Is it possible that children today are not merely scattered and disorganized, but rather there is “more” or “too much” in the world around them? Today’s children have so much information and “stuff” buzzing around them competing for their attention. From the organization of “stuff” in the bedroom, to sitting in the classroom organizing the plethora of competing ideas that flow through their minds, all the while trying to please a disgruntled teacher who must meet some benchmark. Text messages, video games, toys, internet, television, Facebook, Instagram, first person shooter, mine craft,….
I’m just saying that when I was younger I had less “stuff.” My room was simple to organize. I didn’t have video games or messages to check at home. I didn’t have the opportunity to think about questions that could easily be answered with the push of a button on the phone in my pocket. The world seemed more simple. Was it easier for children 30 years ago to “pay attention?” Was it easier for children 30 years ago to be more “organized.” Just a thought as I sift through the 20 open evaluations I have right now and notice that 70% have problems with attention and organization….,hummmm…? Has our society pushed children to becoming ADHD????
BY THE WAY: Spending on ADHD medication in the U.S. rose from $4 billion in 2007 to $9 billion in 2012.
Believe me, I understand how hard educators work in the schools. Even the best have trouble competing for the attention of Generation Z. I believe that because of California’s new standards and curriculum, teacher training programs are better preparing educators to meet the needs of these learners. But in the end, “good teaching is good teaching.” I have always believed it starts in the home, with us. In my own home we have to work hard to control the appetite for “stuff.” We have even gone so far to send our children to learn in an educational environment that values less “stuff.” Upon orientation last year for our children’s school, I felt relieved when I heard the principal say, “…and there will be no cell phones allowed at school.” A parent in the audience raised her hand to voice her concern by asking, “what if my son has an emergency?” The principal confidently replied, “we have phones in the office.” Being a technology junky myself, I have had to learn to “turn it off” and focus on those around me who are much more important than an email or text, or someones portrayed image on Facebook. We all have to do our part to embrace technology while still teaching self control and how to delay gratification.
ADHD Generation Z
