The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt argues that the rise of smartphones and social media since the early 2010s has caused a dramatic decline in youth mental health, creating an “epidemic of mental illness”. The book links this to a “great rewiring of childhood,” where a shift from a play-based to a phone-based childhood has led to increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness, while reducing real-world social skills, independence, and resilience. Haidt proposes solutions for parents, schools, and tech companies, including delaying smartphone access and increasing unstructured play. Eiseley Kotchoubey and Margaret Haske will run the discussion.
Launched in 2018 in Berkshire County, Zeitcaster is an online platform that centralizes local event listings to foster community connections, helping residents and tourists discover public outings while boosting visibility for venues, organizations, and historic sites. Our calendar features a range of cultural, recreational, and family-friendly events to cater to diverse lifestyles. Designed for both venue operators and attendees, Zeitcaster supports tourism, economic growth, and civic pride—helping great events find the audiences they deserve. At a time when human connection matters more than ever, we make it simple for locals to uncover hidden gems and for visitors to authentically experience vibrant communities, promoting civic engagement and shared experiences for kids, parents, and friends alike.
Find delight with your community calendar, simplified.