Melrose Teaching Possible Social Media Dangers Through 4-part Series

MELROSE, MA — The city announced that the first of a four-part educational program called “Screenagers” focused around social media and technology management has been postponed.

The first showing titled “Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition” will now take place on Wednesday, April 1. All four parts of this multi-month series will be shown in the Melrose Public Library on 69 West Emerson St. beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The 90-minute movie focuses on the impact that social media, video games, and other online content can have on young children. The event was originally scheduled for Wednesday, March 25.

The second film, which will be shown on Wednesday, April 29, reportedly explores the life of physician and filmmaker Delaney Ruston. Ruston shows viewers how she manages social media and internet intake with her family and how those things can affect children’s academic performance.

“Through poignant and unexpectedly humorous stories, paired with surprising insights from leading experts, “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age” reveals how screens are shaping kids’ development,” the city describes the movie. “Most importantly, it offers actionable solutions to help adults empower kids to navigate the digital age and find balance.”

The third part of the series titled “Screenagers: Next Chapter” will pick back up on Wednesday, May 27 with Ruston looking into connections between the digital age and young people’s depression, stress, and anxiety. It also presents possible solutions for improving their mental health.

The finale discusses potential connections between social media influence when it comes to substance use of nicotine, drugs, and alcohol. The film features numerous testimonials from teenagers, parents, and professionals who say online culture made them feel as though substance use would lead to social acceptance and overall happiness.

“My son thought that he was taking an oxycodone, but what he was really taking was a fake pill made of fentanyl,” one person said while being interviewed during the documentary.

The final film’s showing is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24.

See Also:

Italian Takeout Spot Shuts Down Melrose Location

Melrose Offering Financial Opportunity To Those Seeking Collegiate Education

Melrose Orchestra To Share Its Instruments With Young Minds Before Family Concert

Melrose Foundation Will Honor Educator With Brand New Award

Melrose City Councilor Making A Run At State Rep.

Melrose Gets More Than $1 Million In Federal Funds For 2 Projects

Melrose Fire Station Closed For Construction

New Wine Bar Aims To Be Gathering Place For Melrose Community

Melrose Police Officer Recognized For Feline Fire Rescue