Restoring Childhood: Why We’re Joining the Movement to Reclaim What Matters Most

At Anniston Academy, we’ve always believed that childhood is sacred. It’s a time for wonder, for discovery, for connection—and most of all, for presence. That’s why we’re proud to announce that we’ve officially joined the Restoring Childhood Coalition as a community partner in Putnam County.

This growing movement, inspired by Jonathan Haidt’s groundbreaking book The Anxious Generation, is bringing families, schools, and local leaders together to ask a powerful question:

What would it look like to give childhood back to our children?

The Problem We’re Facing

Today’s children are spending more time on screens and less time in nature, in play, and in person. Social media and smartphones—designed for constant engagement—are quietly replacing the building blocks of healthy development: curiosity, friendship, resilience, and joy.

The result? A sharp rise in anxiety, depression, and attention challenges among kids and teens.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

What It Means to Restore Childhood

The Restoring Childhood Coalition isn’t about banning technology. It’s about coming together as a community to rethink what childhood should feel like—and to make small, powerful changes that protect kids’ mental health and bring joy back into their daily lives.

At Anniston Academy, this mission aligns perfectly with how we already teach and learn. Our school day is designed with intention:

• Long blocks of outdoor play and nature study

• Screen-free, hands-on academic instruction

• Time to move, create, collaborate, and wonder

• Character education that nurtures empathy, self-awareness, and healthy relationships

We’ve seen the difference it makes—and we want that freedom for every child, in every classroom, and every home.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you're a parent, educator, grandparent, or business owner, there’s a place for you in this movement. Here’s how you can join us:

🌿 Follow the coalition: @restoringchildhoodputnamcounty on Instagram

📖 Read the book: Find The Anxious Generation at the Putnam County Library or Plenty Downtown Bookshop

🤝 Start the conversation: Ask your child’s school, your friend group, or your church: What are we doing to protect our kids’ attention, play, and peace? 🌟