Ben Sasse: The Indoor Childhood Is Bad for America

Thought Leader: Ben Sasse

May 25, 2026

Source: WSJ

Written by: Ben Sasse

We need to reckon with the cultural implications of trapping an entire generation at home with nothing useful to do.

Former U.S. Senator and university president Ben Sasse argues that America’s screen time crisis is really a symptom of a much larger cultural problem: children are no longer being given enough independence, responsibility, or opportunities to explore the world around them. Citing new research, Sasse highlights how today’s children often have unrestricted access to technology while simultaneously being heavily restricted from spending time outdoors or navigating their own neighborhoods independently.

The article explores how overprotection and hyper-supervision have unintentionally contributed to rising screen dependence, passivity, and a lack of resilience among young people. Sasse argues that adolescence should be a gradual introduction to adulthood, where children learn responsibility through real-world experiences, risk-taking, and problem-solving—not through constant indoor entertainment and supervision.

Rather than blaming younger generations, Sasse calls on parents, communities, and institutions to rethink modern childhood and create environments that encourage independence, curiosity, and resilience. He concludes that raising stronger, more capable young adults starts by giving children more freedom, more responsibility, and more meaningful alternatives to screens.

Visit The Wall Street Journal to read the full article by Ben Sasse.

WWSG exclusive thought leader Ben Sasse brings a unique perspective as a former U.S. Senator, university president, and New York Times bestselling author. A leading voice on government and politics, leadership, education, technology and society, and the future of American institutions, Sasse explores how digital disruption is reshaping the world while offering both historical context and forward-looking strategies. From defending free speech to strengthening civic culture and building resilient communities, he equips leaders with the intellectual framework to navigate today’s complex challenges. To invite Ben Sasse to your next event, contact WWSG.

Relevant posts

Time to end secret data laboratories—starting with the CDC

The American people are waking up to the fact that too many public health leaders have not always been straight with them. Despite housing treasure…

Thought Leader: Marty Makary

Anderson Cooper 360º: American spacecraft has landed on the moon for the first time in 50+ years

The lunar lander Odysseus, created by Houston-based company Intuitive Machines, successfully landed on the moon’s surface at 6:24p ET Thursday and has sent back its…