Science Cafe NH is closing out the first half of the 2025 season with an important topic concerning technology and children. The event will feature panelists exploring "The Impacts of Technology on Child Development." This event provides an informal setting for community members to engage with experts and discuss the dual effects of digital technology on the cognitive and social development of children. Attendees can expect a lively conversation covering both the benefits, such as enhanced critical thinking and access to personalized learning, and the challenges, including screen overuse and potential impacts on attention and social skills. The discussion aims to foster understanding of how factors like content quality, duration of use, and the context of technology engagement shape developmental outcomes in different pediatric age groups.
Our Panelists for this event:
• Carmela Amato-Wierda: An Associate Professor of Chemistry and Materials Science at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). She is also the Director of UNH Tech Camp and the Tech for Teachers Institute, and serves as Principal Investigator for NH CREATES.
• Dr. Mario Andrade: Superintendent of Schools for the Nashua School District, bringing nearly 25 years of experience in public education, including roles as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent in both NH and Rhode Island.
• Tricia Brannen: Executive Director of YouthWell New Hampshire. Tricia has served in both business and school counseling roles supporting students K-12.
• Neil Claffey: A Nashua High School social studies teacher from 1989-2021 and was elected to the Nashua Board of Education in 2021. He currently teaches 4th, 5th and 7th grade math at the Lexington (MA) Singapore School.
• Heather Inyart: Executive Director of Media Power Youth, a Manchester, NH-based nonprofit. She has led Media Power Youth in expanding media literacy and social-emotional learning opportunities for youth across NH.
More information on the organizations represented on the panel.
Media Power Youth is a nonprofit organization that empowers young people to engage with media in creative, constructive, and thoughtful ways that support their physical and mental well-being. Through curricula, workshops, and summer camps, Media Power Youth helps youth, parents, educators, and communities build media literacy and critical-thinking skills to navigate today’s media-rich world, addressing topics like digital citizenship, healthy communication, and positive media creation.
YouthWell New Hampshire is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of young people across New Hampshire. Founded by Beth and Brad Kreick, lifelong residents with deep ties to youth education and health. The organization provides grants and resources to schools, youth-serving organizations, and community initiatives, aiming to ensure that children, youth, and families have access to education, tools, and support for mental wellness.
Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Nashua, Workshops in Nashua, Nonprofit events in Nashua.
