The Drug in Our Pocket: Screens, Youth & Mental Health

Learn more about how digital technology is shaping youth mental health and what families and schools can do together to reclaim their attention, agency, and time! Smartphones and social media are part of nearly every moment of young people’s lives—both at home and at school. Parents see it at the dinner table and at bedtime; teachers see the results manifesting in the classroom, in students’ attention, in friendships, and in their perception of themselves. 

Panelists will explore what the research tells us, what parents and educators are seeing in children, and what practical strategies can help kids build healthier relationships with technology. Audience Q&A to follow.

PANELISTS

• Dr. Aliza Pressman, Developmental Psychologist, New York Times Bestselling Author, and Host of the Raising Good Humans Podcast
• Tali Horowitz, East Coast Education Director at Common Sense Media
• Melissa Bernstein, Co-founder of Melissa & Doug Toys and Co-founder of Lifelines
• Annie Sunberg, Director of The Drug in Our Pocket (2026)

MODERATOR

• Beth Kojima, Producer of The Drug in Our Pocket (2026)

Free and open to all, especially educators and parents. Complimentary light bites and beverages will be provided.

Eligible NYS educators will receive 2 CTLE credits for their participation. To receive CTLE credit, participants must attend the full program and complete the required evaluation.

Presented by The New York Public Library’s Center for Educators and Schools.

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