WHICH KIDS HAVE IT TOUGHER

Editor:

You've heard the debate. One side says life is much more complicated
for kids today than it was when I grew up. The other side says
children 40 years ago had fewer stresses to contend with. Haven't we
all wondered who is right? To know for sure, a person would have to
transport himself back in time.

I did this recently. My time machine was a classroom reader widely
used in grade two classes in 1960. "Three Friends," (W.J. Gage and
Company, Toronto ) is 35 little stories aimed at promoting themes of
health, safety, and personal adjustment. Think of this as the C.A.P.P.
program for seven year olds when Bob Dylan came onto the music scene
and J.F.K. was in his prime. One of the stories in "My Friends"
entitled "At Johnnie's House" is intended to help little kids
understand that bad dreams are normal and nothing to worry about. In
this tale little Johnnie is very upset because he believes his
grandfather has suddenly shown up unexpectedly demanding that they
head out to the farm immediately. Poor Johnny however, is not ready to
go. "He said it was late, and I must get up," says Johnny.

Fortunately, mom is able to explain to Johnny that he was just
dreaming. "Oh," I see, laughed Johnnie. "Dreams are funny."

Not long ago, in the present time zone, I heard about another
seven-year-old's dream. This little guy wakes up screaming that the
cops are trying to shoot his dog, and destroy all their pot. Dad, who
had been watching Trailer Park Boys on T.V. tries to reassure the
youngster that nobody was trying to shoot either of their pit bulls,
and that their latest crop of weed is safe and ready for delivery.
"Besides, they'd chew any cop's hand off before he got his gun out of
its holster."

Finally, today's little Johnnie is able to calm down. "Get some
sleep!" orders Dad. "You've gotta help me delivery this stuff."

Today's little Johnnie hasn't slept well for some time now, but he
can't keep his eyes open any longer. "Dreams are funny," he says, and
finally nods off. So, what do you think? Is life more complicated for
seven-year-olds today than it was in 1960? I have my opinion, but you
be the judge.

Jack Emberly

Maple Ridge