This Season’s Book

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt offers a clear, compelling look at how the rise of smartphones and the decline of independent childhood have reshaped youth well-being. Drawing on wide-ranging research and real-world examples, Haidt explains how constant digital exposure, reduced free play, and heightened social pressures have contributed to growing anxiety and disconnection among young people.

Blending insight with practical guidance, he highlights how families, schools, and communities can rebuild healthier norms; restoring in-person play, strengthening real-world relationships, and creating environments that foster resilience. Concise yet impactful, the book challenges readers to rethink childhood in the digital age and to take meaningful steps toward a more grounded, connected future for kids.