I was in McDonald's for lunch the other day. I don't eat there that often, but this was just one of those days. I was sitting in a newly remodeled store eating my lunch when I noticed they had redone what used to be the play area. In its place was a small kiosk with game controllers with individual screens. No longer were there slides, balls or play structures. Now, some parents may say that the ball pit is not a big loss as it isn't always the most sanitary place but as far as I'm concerned the benefits outweigh those concerns. As I was looking at this new area, I noticed something else that was missing. The opportunity for kids to run off some steam, the chance to make new friends, to get off of their bottoms and get some exercise! Also MIA, Mom's chance for a break, her chance to make new friends or visit for lunch, even a minute to read something she wants to read.
It's sad that the kids have yet another opportunity to do something that encourages them to interact with a square screen instead of a living person. The kids probably sat and watched TV at home; sat in the car for the ride there and then sat some more while they ate and played a computer game by themselves. I'm not blaming McDonalds's for this as it is probably easier to maintain that kind of an area, less liability for them, maybe that's what the consumer wanted. I guess we don't always want what is good for us. Still, it is a sad, sad day at McDonald Land!
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Edina Realty - Elk River, MN
Bringing you home...
Wow! That is sad. I hope that it isn't a trend that continues!!!! They've done such a great job of promoting healthier choices along with the fast food - I am surprised they eliminated the chance at some movement....
Nov 26, 2007 06:03 AM
Quakertown, PA
e-PRO, Realtor - Bucks County PA - 610-952-3578
This is very interesting. I must say, I know of two McDonald's restaurants that were leveled, and a new modern McDonalds is appearing in its place. Perhaps the same thing is happening with these.
Could the old play lands becoming as popular as carbon paper, thermal fax machines, and slide rules? Maybe it is a sign of the times.
On the other hand, I remember in high school, taking typing classes. I don't see this happening any more. Most children can type with both hands very well and a very early age.
Nov 26, 2007 06:29 AM
Agent Referral - Salt Lake City, UT
That is very odd Mary. When most of the country is trying to encourage kids to get fit, Micky Dee is encouraging them to, well I'll just leave it at that.
Have a wonderful week!
Nov 26, 2007 01:20 PM
Reece & Nichols Realtors - Kansas City, MO
Mary Richards
Lindsey: They have done a much better job at promoting healthier foods and a more active lifestyle. Maybe this is a test store. They are trying many new things right now to maintain market share.
Donald: Your comments are so true about the changing times. My kids are 8, 10, & 12 and they know how to Google search and use the computer. I overheard my girls talking the other day and one of them said, "LOL". I had to LOL. :-)
Julie: I thought it was odd too. I so enjoyed your post about your Mom! I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about it. You have a gift with weaving a story! Blessings to you!
Nov 26, 2007 01:44 PM
Agent Referral - Salt Lake City, UT
Mary-You are such a sweetheart. Thank you so much! I left you a response to your comment on my blog. What gratitude that brings to have you appreciate my blogs. I hope you have a wonderful week and blessings to you too my friend.
Nov 26, 2007 02:05 PM
Reece & Nichols Realtors - Kansas City, MO
Mary Richards
Julie: I saw your kind comments. I had to make my way through the different blogs that I check. You and some of the other Active Rain bloggers just inspire me! You have a fantastic week too!
Nov 26, 2007 02:13 PM
RE/MAX Rewards - Columbia, MD
Howard Co. Real Estate Scoop
Hmmm........I am taking a different take on this post -- I understand an occasional meal at the Golden Arches, however, I remember eating at home as a child and its what I did for my children primarily during their early years. I also got out there and played kickball with them and various other activities.
Activities at home and in the neighborhood are more essential than at McDonalds.
Nov 26, 2007 02:37 PM
Reece & Nichols Realtors - Kansas City, MO
Mary Richards
Aziz: Your kids are so lucky to have had that involvement from you! I agree with you completely. I am commenting on what I see in my community. I do see many kids now that have many of their meals from fast food places or pre-packaged meals that aren't that healthy. I also see a lot of kids that are drinking sugared sodas, too much junk food and getting heavy. The problems that come with this are a sad thing for them at such a young age. A lot of kids aren't getting outside while at home. They are sitting inside and watching TV or playing video games. I walk through many homes where the kids have a TV and a game system in their rooms. Not only does this give them unmonitored access, but it promotes them being isolated from the family. Everybody is off in their own space with their own computer or TV. It is a sign of the changing times I guess. Thanks for sharing your viewpoint.
Nov 26, 2007 02:52 PM
RE/MAX Rewards - Columbia, MD
Howard Co. Real Estate Scoop
Mary -- sad thing about our commentary is things are suppose to get better --we have some work to do to improve things.
Nov 26, 2007 07:24 PM
DDR Realty - Newburgh, NY
DDR Realty
The more technology advances the less chance we have for actual physical activity...
Nov 26, 2007 10:18 PM
Reece & Nichols Realtors - Kansas City, MO
Mary Richards
We have to make getting physical activity a priority. I think it comes down to being aware and thinking, "Oh, I should turn off the tv and go outside." It is easy to get into the habit of flipping on the tv for background noise while you do chores and before you know it, hours have passed. I see this with my kids now. My 12 year loves tv, game cube and the computer. All of those things are in common areas so we can monitor usage but sometimes I get busy fixing dinner and fielding phone calls or helping the girls with homework. Time does fly by. I try to turn off the tv and go outside with the kids. I have been shooting baskets and worked up a sweat. It is good exercise.
Nov 27, 2007 12:43 AM
Vista Sotheby's International - Rolling Hills Estates, CA
The world is changing and not ness. for the better...those playlands are a fond memory from my childhood and it's too bad other kids will miss out on that.
Dec 12, 2007 05:38 AM
Elizabeth Anne Weintraub, Broker - Sacramento, CA
Put 40 years of experience to work for you
Yeah, kids don't want to go outside and play anymore. They prefer to sit glued to the TV or computer. I have no idea how I ever survived my childhood, writing in the streets with bits of drywall, catching fireflies, digging up earthworms, being told to "get outside and don't come home until the street lights come on!"
Dec 20, 2007 02:29 AM
Reece & Nichols Realtors - Kansas City, MO
Mary Richards
Elizabeth: I know what you mean. I grew up playing outside all of the time. I'd play baseball, football -tackle, until the boys got bigger than me and it hurt when I landed on the bottom of the pile. I be outside all day running in the woods, playing in the pond and creek and riding bikes. The world has changed too. I wouldn't be comfortable with my kids being gone all day like that. I have been trying to give my kids things to do that are physical like jump rope, basketball, hula hoop, skates, etc. They do like playing flashlight tag too.
Have a great Christmas!
Dec 20, 2007 03:22 AM
Rainer
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Mary Richards
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