Media should focus on helping At-Risk Kids

A recent story of a small boy who was supposedly trapped in a hot air balloon created an enormous news sensation. Social commentator Ariana Huffington complains about the lack of attention the media gives to the real problems of children:

"-- the over 1.5 million children who are homeless.
-- the 42 percent of homeless children who are under the age of 6.
-- the one in six homeless children who suffers from an emotional problem.

It doesn't have to be wall-to-wall coverage, but how about some coverage of the 75 to 100 percent increase in the number of children who are newly homeless because of the foreclosure crisis? Or the 13 million American children living in poverty?"

I agree with Ariana, and thank her for pointing out the ridiculous media-obsession with sensationalism. I think the media misjudge the intelligence and interests of their audience. Presenting the desperate needs of children could be just as captivating as the "balloon boy" story and would serve a higher purpose in motivating more help for children.

It is encouraging to know there are philanthropists wise enough to act on their own, not waiting for the media to become relevant—like film director David Lynch, whose foundation helps children deal with stress and improve their mental capabilities by teaching them Transcendental Meditation. Such innovative projects warrant media attention and could satisfy the interest of sensationalism, too.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost

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