Kirtland School District, in partnership with the Kirtland PTA, Kirtland Police Department and the Kirtland Public Library, is inviting parents, grandparents, guardians, and community members to participate in an upcoming Community Book Read centered on student well-being and youth mental health. Th e selected book, “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, explores how changes in childhood experiences—particularly the decline of free play and the rise of smartphones and social media—have reshaped childhood and contributed to rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people. A special adult-only Community Discussion Night to explore the book’s themes and share perspectives on supporting children in today’s digital world will take place at 6 p.m. Feb. 2 in Hornet Hall at Kirtland Elementary School, 9140 Chillicothe Road, according to a news release. Haidt’s research-based work examines how this “Great Rewiring” has affected children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and neurological development, while also offering practical steps families and communities can take to support healthier, more resilient children. To support readers, a reading companion guide created by Kelly Moran is available to help spark reflection and family conversation while reading the book, the release stated. Moran will also serve as moderator for the community discussion. The evening will feature a panel of local experts, including a police officer, school counselor, magistrate, and pediatrician, who will share insights and answer questions related to adolescent mental health, technology use, and community responsibility. District leaders believe this shared reading experience provides an important opportunity to come together as a community—learning from research, engaging in thoughtful dialogue, and identifying actionable strategies to strengthen support for every child. Community members are strongly encouraged to obtain a copy of “The Anxious Generation” and begin reading, the release stated. The book is available for purchase online and may also be borrowed for free from the Kirtland Public Library, which has secured more than 20 copies for the community. ...read more read less