Taking Back Childhood: Helping Children Thrive in Challenging Times

The influences on children today are very different from those of even a generation ago. The rapid rise in the use of technology and time spent in front of screens, the faster pace of life, the influence of consumer culture, the increase in academic pressure and testing in schools all can potentially undermine children’s optimal growth. But in spite of the harm these social trends can deliver, there are many steps we can take to help meet our kids’ developmental needs and help them to flourish even in these challenging times.

Nancy Carlsson-Paige is Professor Emerita at Lesley University where she was a teacher educator in child development for more than 30 years and where she co-founded Lesley’s Center for Peaceable Schools. She has written five books and numerous articles, book chapters, and op eds on media and technology, conflict resolution, peaceable classrooms, and education reform. Her most recent book is called Taking Back Childhood: A Proven Roadmap for Raising Confident, Creative, Compassionate Kids. Nancy has received many awards for her leadership and advocacy in peace and early childhood education. She is an advocate for education policies and practices that promote social justice, equity, and the well being of all children.