Comments by ANNETTE AH YOUNG Most recent public comments by ANNETTE AH YOUNG https://nowcomment.com/users/115505 I see evidence of this growing https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655230 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655230 I've noticed an increase in using devices to calm babies and/or keep toddlers from throwing tantrums in public places. Another incident I saw while dining with friends at a restaurant was between a mom and her son. Once they sat down, they were glued to their phones. When their meals arrived, they went back to their phones. No conversation whatsoever. The social connection has waned as technology advances. We've somehow lost our voices and abilities to have conversations with other people. Even with video-conferencing capabilities, which allows for 'talking', most people prefer texting. The disconnect is not just from the youth; adults are sometimes drivers of this disinterest in engaging with the youth. Sun, 05 Dec 2021 00:15:33 -0800 Connecting online with offline networks is also key https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655228 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655228 This is an important connection that should be amplified. Tal was able to find support in her community which gave her even more empowerment to further her interests. She didn't have to go far to seek it; she can start her own or utilize the available resources already in her area and/or state. Local governments should be able to finance youth programs as well as adult programs to engage community members of opportunities that exist so they can join and would help lead to more opportunities and/or job prospects. Sun, 05 Dec 2021 00:01:38 -0800 There is, indeed, a gap that needs to addressed. https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655227 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2655227 Not only parents but educators who have been teaching 10+ years are also at a disadvantage. Some of them are quite content with the curriculum and way of teaching they are familiar with, and introducing strategies involving technology could be a daunting undertaking. Teachers take pride in their hard work and accomplishments, so it's important to gradually ease them into this digital culture arena so they become comfortable with utilizing the equipment and implementing them in their classroom. Sat, 04 Dec 2021 23:44:48 -0800