PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — How is cell phone technology impacting our youth? And what can be done about it?
5-2-1-0 Let’s Go! a program of Aroostook County Action Program and Aroostook County Health Network are hosting youth and family viewings of the film “Screenagers” at several local schools in the coming weeks.
Smartphone use among middle-school-aged youth is increasing, with the average age that a child gets a smartphone at 10.3 years old. Studies have shown that cell phones in schools can have a negative impact on students’ academic performance, health and emotional wellbeing.
“Screenagers” is trying to change the way cell phones affect youth. After the viewing, families will receive information to help them work on the cell phone use in their own homes.
The current “Screenagers” schedule includes:
Wednesday, March 21, 6 p.m.: family viewing at Easton High School in the gym.
Thursday, March 29 (time not listed): teen and family viewing at Washburn Junior/Senior High School in the gym.
Monday, April 2, family viewing 6 p.m. Central Aroostook Junior-Senior High School in the music room.
Thursday, April 12, family viewing, 6 p.m. Wisdom Junior-Senior High School in the cafeteria.
For more information or to attend a viewing, contact Katharine Putnam, Let’s Go! coordinator, or Monica Jerkins, resource developer at (207) 764-3721.
