SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — The impact of constant exposure to digital screens on developing minds and how to combat this will be the topic of a discussion on Thursday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. in the South Orange Public Library meeting room, 65 Scotland Road in South Orange. This event will be facilitated by SOMA School Library Friends. The presentation will be a followup to the Nov. 16 screening of “Screenagers,” produced and directed by Delaney Ruston, a documentary filmmaker and primary care physician. The film was shown at South Mountain Elementary School and moderated by David Brancaccio, host of public radio’s “Marketplace Morning Report.” The event stimulated lively responses from everyone in the audience, regardless of age.
The film, presents a compelling glimpse into the lives of teens struggling with the impact of digital technology on their daily lives. The effects extend to family relationships as well as studies and interaction with contemporaries. Comments from those present at the Nov. 16 event echoed statements from participants in the film. Students pointed out that they feel the addictive effects of texting and violent games and need help controlling usage.
“Our event … is to extend the conversation that was started after the screening of ‘Screenagers.’ What ideas do parents have for keeping screentime in balance for their kids — and themselves? What thoughts do kids have about this? What other discussions should we be starting in our community to help our kids in the digital information age?” April Merl, a South Orange parent of a first grader, active PTO member and a member of SOMA School Library Friends, said in a press release.
Tonia Moore, president of Friends of South Orange Public Library, extended an invitation to “grandparents, parents, anyone who has contact with children and the children in our community.”
Information on the film may be obtained at www.screenagersmovie.com or by consulting the SOMA School Library Friends on Facebook.