Talk Childhood Independence With Documentary Stars

DARIEN, CT — A documentary titled "Chasing Childhood" explores the decline of free play and independence in kids' lives — and the public is invited to discuss the movie with two people featured in it and members of a local task force.

"Chasing Childhood" was released in 2020, and the documentary's website says it's about "how free play and independence have all but disappeared from kids' lives, supplanted by relentless perfectionism leading to record rates of anxiety and depression."

The documentary also spotlights experts and families who are helping young people become independent and enjoy unstructured time, and two of those experts will attend a virtual community conversation next month.

Hosted by YWCA Parent Awareness and the Thriving Youth Task Force (a volunteer coalition run by The Community Fund of Darien), the conversation will be "about reimagining a healthier, happier way forward for our kids," officials said.

It held via Zoom on April 4 at 7 p.m., and the experts featured in the documentary who will attend are:

• Dr. Michael Hynes — a schools superintendent and associate professor of education and leadership
• Genevieve Eason — executive director of the Wilton Youth Council

Registration is required, and after signing up participants will receive an event confirmation with a link to watch the documentary. Attendees can watch it anytime from March 30-April 4.

Register here.