Published: March 28, 2008 10:34 am         

Status quo

Lawmakers change bill requiring more gym classes

Maryland children won't be required to take more gym classes after all. The state Senate has changed a bill requiring more physical education in elementary and middle schools.

Citing the cost of $26 million to hire more physical education teachers in schools, the panel rejected the idea. Instead, the Senate is hoping the House will go along with its proposal to study the whole issue.

With TV and video games taking up much of our kids' free time, it is no wonder obesity levels have been sharply rising. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 10 percent of U.S. children 2 to 5 years old and 15 percent of 6 to 19-year-olds are overweight.

The problem usually continues through adult years. The American Academy of Pediatrics said childhood obesity is "an unprecedented burden on children's health." It is estimated that 80 percent of overweight children remain that way in adulthood.

Parental involvement, not school-mandated programs, are the solution. If more parents would force children - and themselves - to turn off the TV and limit computer gaming, obesity statistics would improve. Going outside to play or walk every day used to be common. That is hardly the case today.

Children learn habits early in life. Setting a good example for them and encouraging physical activity and proper eating has to start at an early age.