More Nanny State News: School bans footballs, tag and cartwheels from recess to keep kids from getting hurt

In the latest nanny-state move to keep kids from being kids, a Long Island middle school has decided that playing games at recess can be dangerous. News reports say that Weber Middle School has instituted a ban on footballs, baseballs, lacrosse balls. Games of tag or cartwheels must be supervised by a coach, or they are not allowed. Tag, really? Nerf balls are allowed, because "The Port Washington district said the softer foam balls put students in the best situation to cut down the chance of getting injured." Port Washington schools Supt. Kathleen Maloney said the change in policy is warranted due to a rash of playground injuries. One news report goes on to say "Without helmets and pads, children are much more susceptible to getting hurt, experts said." Wow! I always thought one of the rites of passage from childhood was that broken arm or scar on the chin or knee. Somehow I survived my childhood with out bike helmets, knee pads or Nerf balls. I am waiting for the day when parents are required to send their kids to school wrapped in bubble-wrap. Don't laugh, that day is coming.