Stressed Out Kids Topic Of New Southington Book Group

Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington

SOUTHINGTON, CT — If you're wondering why your child seems more anxious and stressed than, say, yourself at the same age, a local community/school collaborative effort may help.

The Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington, Southington Public Library and Southington Public Schools are partnering on a three-night book discussion of "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness."

All sessions will be in the Southington Public Library's Community Room starting later this month and into next month. The new library is located at 255 Main St., Southington.

"The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt is a New York Times bestseller and it takes a look at the "collapse of youth mental health in the era of smartphones, social media, and big tech."

Those interested are asked to either purchase or borrow the book to prepare for the discussions.

A limited number of copies of The Anxious Generation are available to borrow from the Southington Public Library or attendees can purchase their own.

The following sessions will delve into the topic of children's mental health:

• Session 1: Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 6:30 p.m. The Decline of Play and the Rise of Anxiety,
Read Introduction-Chapter 4.
Key Themes: The importance of independent play and real-world socialization; Shifts in parenting styles (overprotection, fear, and structured lives; And early warning signs of the mental health crisis

• Session 2: Wednesday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. Screens, Social Media, and Student Mental Health. Read Chapters 5-9

Key Themes: The shift from real-world to online interactions; The impact of social media on self-esteem and mental health; and the role of schools and communities in regulating screen time.

• Session 3: Monday, March 24, at 6:30 p.m. Building a Healthier Generation-What Can We Do? Read Chapter 10-Conclusion

Key Themes: Setting limits on social media and smartphones; Reintroducing independence, real-world connection, and resilience-building; Policy and practice recommendations for schools and parents.

Register for one, two, or all three sessions via the Southington Public Library at this link.

For more information and/or to purchase a copy of 'The Anxious Generation,' click on this link.