Childhood is in crisis. While eating at a cafe last weekend, I caught sight of a small child sitting on a bench outside, drinking a soda while his eyes remained glued to the glaring screen of a cell phone.

I have spoken with several other folks who have had similar sightings. For all of you as disappointed as I am, let's contemplate what did and should constitute the basic elements of any childhood: spending afternoons poring over coloring books, mastering the art of cursive handwriting, embarking on pretend treasure hunts, building pillow forts, learning to ride a bike, trying one's hand at a kite and so forth.

Some folks may argue that these are long outdated for children now as we plow through this technological world. In all reality, however, such experiences are necessary to lay the framework for a creative, mentally stimulated society, something that digital devices cannot inspire alone.

I want each generation teeming with the jewels of imagination and possibility. For this to happen, we must ensure that the precious components of a true childhood become mainstays in our American culture, and not just transient features of an era gone by.

HENNA HUNDAL Turlock