While the article is obviously US-Centric, a lot of the things mentioned in it are applicable to other countries as well, including mine (Greece). As a child,

While the article is obviously US-Centric, a lot of the things mentioned in it are applicable to other countries as well, including mine (Greece). As a child, I was used to going out each evening in the neighbourhood to play with other kids. All the kids gathered in the nearest park/playground/court, and we played for hours each day, especially the spring/summer months. Today, as a parent of 3 (8, 4 and 1 year old), I have noticed other parents don't let their kids out in the playgrounds any more. Playgrounds have few kids, and most children are very young, below 4 years old. Apparently, older children are occupied daily with structured activities, i.e. sports, foreign languages, swimming, music and other hobbies. My 8 year old daughter really struggled to get new friendships the last two years, since we moved to the appartment we are currently in. None of her classmates are to be found anywhere in the neighbourhood after school.