Restoring Childhood: Collective Conversations Series

This fall, Restoring Childhood will host a five-part in-person series called Collective Conversations, bringing the community together to explore The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Each session will feature a short summary of that section of the book, a keynote from a guest speaker, and a townhall discussion with a panel of local experts. These events are free and open to the public. You can listen to the forums on Lite Rock 95.9, 96-9 Highway 111 Country, and News Talk 94.1.

Session 3: The Rise of the Phone-Based Childhood

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Upperman High School Auditorium

Book Focus: Part III unpacks how smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity have reshaped youth development.

Keynote Speaker: Alisha Flannery – Impact of The Great Rewiring in Schools

Panelists: Alisha Flannery, Morgan Aubrey, Sara Harvick, Dr. Mel Presley, Jamie Brown, Violeta Juan, Ethan Breeding, Dr. Jonathan Nelms, Wren Goedken, Leah Turner

Session 4: Collective Action for a Healthier Childhood

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Avery Trace Middle School Auditorium

Book Focus: Part IV explores what families, schools, and communities can do to reverse the trends and reclaim childhood.

Keynote Speaker: Jill Ramsey – Better Together

Panelists: Jill Ramsey, Shelia Barker, Corby King, Mayor Laurin Wheaton, Brittney Hines, Celeste Walker, Nicole Delaney, Rebecca Shearman, Tera Brooks, Tiffany Anton