Lippman School hosts free screening of “SCREENAGERS: Growing Up in the Digital Age” March 21
— Teens spend an average of nine hours a day looking at screens, whether it’s watching videos, checking social media or gaming, according to a 2015 report by Common Sense Media. The Lippman School will hosts a free public viewing of the movie “SCREENAGERS: Growing Up in the Digital Age,” Wednesday, March 21 at 6:15 p.m. The event also includes light dinner and a discussion.
Directed by Delaney Ruston, “SCREENAGERS” is the first feature documentary to explore the impact of screen technology on kids and offer parents and families proven solutions that work.
The Common Sense Media report also notes that tweens, defined as children 8 to 12, spend approximately six hours a day looking at a screen. These numbers pose a few serious questions: How much is too much when it comes to screen time? What effect does screen time have on developing brains? How do we find a healthy balance?
Physician and filmmaker Ruston decided to make “SCREENAGERS” when she found herself constantly struggling with her two kids about screen time. Ruston said she felt guilty and confused, unsure of what limits were best, especially around mobile phones, social media, gaming and how to monitor online homework. Hearing repeatedly how other parents were equally overwhelmed, she realized this is one of the biggest unexplored parenting issues of our time.
A facilitated discussion led by Rabbi Josh Brown of Temple Israel will follow and will focus on how residents may help children make healthy choices in daily life that balance the benefits of technology and positive, face-to-face social interactions.
The event is free and open to the public and will be held at the Shaw JCC of Akron auditorium, 750 White Pond Dr. Doors open at 6 p.m. and a light dinner will be served 6:15 p.m. The film begins at 6:30 p.m. with a running time of one hour and six minutes. RSVP in advance to The Lippman School at (330) 836-0419.
View the trailer at www.screenagersmovie.com/trailer. The film is recommended for middle school and high school students, their parents and caregivers, as well as educators and community members.
The Lippman School offers a globalized transitional kindergarten through eighth grade independent school education now celebrating 51 years at the Schultz Campus for Jewish Life in Akron. For info, visit www.TheLippmanSchool.org or call (330) 836-0419.
