To the editor:

There is a lot in Lawrence for children to do. Perhaps big, expensive buildings are not the answer. Play outdoors.

In a Dec. 29 letter, Aspen seems to be asking to be busy. You kids have brilliant minds, lots of energy and talent. Use it. Do things that burn up energy such as singing, dancing, working out, walking, cycling or swimming.

To children old and young:

¢ Drugs can be a waste of money and a waste of time.

¢ Ask parents every now and then to pool together and do a trip to the Kansas City Zoo – fun for all ages. Even more fun with binoculars observing the chewing action of an elephant’s mouth.

¢ Hey, kids, ride your bikes or group walk to the wetlands.

¢ Do group hiking at Clinton Lake or local nature trails.

¢ Visit Prairie Park Nature Center.

¢ Volunteer to pull weeds from park gardens as a constructive task.

¢ Schedule art, music and dance classes. Make pottery. An afternoon woodworking class?

¢ Form singing duets, trios or quartets. Become blues, jazz and rock stars.

¢ Lawrence has many parks plus some hike and bike trails.

¢ Roller blading and roller skating on the sidewalks.

¢ Talk politics.

¢ Parents plus children equals creativity. Afternoon youth bowling leagues perhaps?

¢ Hike and bike trails do not require staffing, heating or air-conditioning, which equals inexpensive entertainment.

¢ Can’t get around? Use the T.

Richard Heckler,

Lawrence