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Chapter 8 of The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt focuses on the growing mental health crisis among young people, particularly those born after 1995, and the role of social media in exacerbating this issue. Haidt argues that the rise in anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies among adolescents can be traced back to the widespread use of smartphones and social media platforms. These technologies, while providing connection, also promote comparison, cyberbullying, and a sense of isolation, which negatively affect mental health.

He also discusses how social media platforms amplify negative emotions by fostering environments that prioritize likes, shares, and comments, which can lead to unhealthy validation-seeking behaviors. Haidt emphasizes the impact on girls, who are more vulnerable to social comparison and the pressures of maintaining a curated online image. Furthermore, he explores how this technological shift has coincided with societal changes, including the erosion of face-to-face interaction and the decline of community involvement, both of which contribute to the increase in mental health issues.

The chapter concludes by suggesting possible solutions, such as limiting social media usage for young people, encouraging more offline interactions, and advocating for broader societal changes to reduce the pressure on youth and help them build resilience against these stressors.

Numeracy, the ability to understand and work with numbers, can be subtly woven into the fabric of card games, making learning numbers both fun and incidental. Games like "War" or "Crazy Eights" introduce children to basic arithmetic concepts such as counting, sequencing, and comparing numbers in an enjoyable context.

A 2020 study in Early Childhood Education Quarterly found that children who engaged in card games regularly showed marked improvements in their numeracy skills compared to those who did not. Incorporating numbers into play allows children to internalise mathematical concepts more naturally and without the pressure often associated with formal learning environments.

Moving Beyond the Screen: The Benefits of Tangible Play

While digital games boast vibrant graphics and interactive features, they often lack the tangible interaction that card games offer. Physical play is crucial in the early years of development, as it engages multiple senses and provides a more comprehensive learning experience. Card games encourage social interaction, which is vital for developing communication skills and emotional intelligence.

Moreover, taking a break from screens can relieve the strain on young eyes and prevent the digital fatigue that’s becoming increasingly common among children. Playing card games at a table or on a blanket in the park also offers a change of scenery, fostering creativity and imagination.

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