Greetings Pine Valley Families, 

I’m jumping back into The Anxious Generation—and I appreciate your patience as life (and work) got a little full, and this book study slipped for a bit.
When I picked the book back up, it felt a little fitting. The very things Haidt talks about—busyness, distraction, and constant demands on our attention—are exactly what pulled me away. So coming back to this work feels less like picking up where we left off and more like a reminder of why it matters in the first place.
As I’ve circled back, I’ve been spending time in Part 4 (Chapters 11–13), where Haidt focuses on what we can do—especially in situations where stepping away from phones or social media entirely isn’t realistic.
One section that feels especially relevant is his discussion of how to respond when being constantly connected is the norm. Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, he emphasizes reducing harm and rebuilding control.
A few key takeaways from this part of the book:
It’s not about quitting—it’s about being intentional
Haidt notes that for most people, especially young people, completely avoiding phones isn’t realistic. The goal becomes shifting from automatic use to purposeful use—asking “Why am I picking this up right now?”
Add friction back in
Because apps are designed to keep us engaged, even small barriers can help (moving apps, turning off notifications, logging out). These small changes interrupt the habit loop.
Replace, don’t just remove
We’re more successful when we substitute another activity rather than just trying to stop scrolling altogether.
Protect “phone-free” spaces
Carving out specific times and places (meals, bedrooms, social interactions) helps protect attention.
😬 Expect discomfort
That restless feeling when we’re not checking our phones is a normal response to reduced stimulation—not a failure. It passes.
We need collective norms
One of his strongest arguments: individual willpower isn’t enough. Change works better when groups create shared expectations.
💭 As you reflect:
Where do you notice the strongest “pull” to check your phone?
What’s one small change (friction or boundary) you could try?
What norms could we build together in our classrooms or meetings?
One small thing I tried this weekend:
My husband and I went out to celebrate friends who were married 11 years ago on Kentucky Derby Day. We went to watch the Derby and have dinner.......and I left my phone at home.
Anyone who truly needed me (including my 81-year-old mom) could reach my husband.
I’ll be honest—it felt a little strange at first. But by the end of the night, I felt more present, more connected to the people I was with, and actually relaxed.
It was a good reminder that sometimes stepping away—even for a few hours—is worth it.
I’m glad to be jumping back into this with you.