Young Americans are in a tough spot, and they need assistance right away.
Currently, 5 in 5 children aged 2-19 are dealing with obesity. Over the last two decades, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes among this age group has dramatically doubled.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of American kids and teens with type 2 diabetes could surge by an astonishing 700% by 2060!
The outlook isn’t any better when it comes to mental health.
Concerned Youth
Teenagers are increasingly worried about mental health issues, substance use, and even suicide, as highlighted by the CDC. Data straight from the youth can provide deeper insights into just how widespread these problems are.
This year, a staggering 40% of young people expressed feelings of sadness and despair. About 16% contemplated suicide, while 9% made attempts.
Honestly, what worries me is that our kids are falling behind academically.
The latest findings from the National Evaluation of Educational Progress Report reveal that the average reading scores for fourth graders dropped 2 points from 2022 and fell 5 points from 2019. Similarly, eighth graders showed the same decline.
In math, fourth graders’ scores were 2 points higher than in 2022 but still 3 points short of pre-pandemic levels. Eighth graders didn’t see much movement from 2022, yet were 8 points lower than 2019.
Looking at science, eighth graders scored four points less in 2024 compared to 2019, and this decrease was reflected across all percentiles compared to 2019.
Home is Where Help Begins
It’s challenging to digest these statistics and stay optimistic about what’s to come. I hope it’s not too late to change direction, yet it feels like the challenges are daunting.
There’s plenty of blame to go around for the sudden decline in children’s physical and mental well-being. Some food companies push sugary processed foods, while tech companies are often criticized for kids’ screen obsession.
But, ultimately, I point the finger at the parents.
I don’t buy into the idea that it takes a village to raise children. I genuinely believe that effective parenting, not reliance on strangers, is what shapes well-rounded kids.
It’s the parents’ duty to oversee what their children eat. When buying groceries and expensive gadgets, it is crucial for parents to instill lessons on moderation, discipline, and other values that foster responsible adulthood.
It’s also unreasonable to blame students for not performing well in a flawed public school system. As a former public school teacher, I know firsthand how many government-run schools fail to adequately educate countless students across the U.S.
Yet, we must question what role parents play in their children’s education. Are they doing everything possible to guide their children academically? Are they pushing for better funding for public schools? Or are they even engaged in their children’s education? Do they monitor the unsuitable content online?
These are tough questions, but they’re essential.
Seeking Discipline
Reflecting on my time as a high school teacher, I was held accountable by my students. Many complained about being challenged and called me “mean.”
Interestingly, as time passed, those same students often expressed gratitude for the high standards I held them to. They truly craved order and discipline.
Kids need adults to steer them. Sometimes, they need a tough love approach. And, frankly, government programs can’t offer the support they require at this moment.
Strong family units have always formed the bedrock of a healthy society. If America wants to protect its children, we must prioritize our families.
