Book Discussion of The Anxious Generation

Posted: 9/20/2024 6:31 pm

What a wonderful way to kick off this fall's series of conversations around "Kids and Smart Devices"!

So grateful for the many community members who came to discuss The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt's impactful new book,  at a gorgeous venue - Hummingbird Books. The conversation was thoughtfully curated by Astrid Allen (5th grade parent), in small groups with suggested prompting questions*.

Attendees, including education leaders and parents of K-7 students, identified similar pressures caused by smartphones and smart watches in young people's lives. Messages from the book which resonated with all were the need to empower children in the real world - through free play, responsibilities, wild roaming - and roll back screens' omnipresence. Some parents shared that the book inspired them to give their children a flip phone. Others expressed excitement for the possibility of completing a "Wait Until 8th" campaign at Hayes School.

*If would like to explore the book but weren't able to join us, see below for independent ideas.

This event was successful thanks to:

• The leadership of Astrid Allen (5th grade) and Erica O'Mahony (3rd and 5th) in spearheading the book club initiative
• The organizational assistance of Nathalie Roberts (4th and K) and Theodora Konetsovska (7th and 4th)
• The gracious hospitality of Hummingbird Books at the Square (Chestnut Hill)
• The wonderful generosity of the Hayes PTO and the Hanna-Renkes family

What's Next

• Be on the lookout for our upcoming events in the series (including a pediatric psychologist's talk; a children's book discussion; and the "Wait Until 8th" campaign)
• If you'd like to read the book, order a copy from Hummingbird and explore independently using these questions
• Want to host your own The Anxious Generation discussion? Astrid has graciously shared her prompt cards for everyone's use
• Have ideas on topics to include in our exploration of "Kids and Smart Devices"? Email theodora.konetsovska@gmail.com or nathalieroberts10@gmail.com

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