Join us for the next installment of the Can We Talk? series sponsored by Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services on April 28, 2015 at 6:30 pm at OSMS Library, 60 Sheffield Street, OS

Are you concerned or confused about the role technology should play in our children's daily lives? Join us for a talk that will answer these important questions:

How does technology effect early-childhood brain development?

How much technology is too much?

What is the difference between "good" and "bad" technology?

What responsibility do we have as educators, practitioners and parents to shape the use of technology in our children's lives?

Alicia Farrell, Ph.D. is an accomplished cognitive psychologist and founder of Clearview Consulting and the Center for Mental Fitness.  Some of her noteworthy accomplishments include 9 years as a university professor, twice a fellowship award recipient in support of research on Wisdom.  Alicia's life's work is to educate and coach people, and organizations, on how to maximize brain power and solve problems. She also has a private practice coaching individuals who want to make healthy and durable changes in their lives.. Dr. Farrell brings 20 years of expertise and passion to her work.

Current Social Media and App Trends:

Are you wondering what apps are popular among your children and their friends? Want to know more about social media and using it safely?  Part 2 of this installment of Can We Talk? focuses on just that! 

Sam Perduta received his Master's in information and Library Sciences from Southern Connecticut State University, and while studying there was employed at the New Haven Apple Store, where he worked as a Business Specialist, both receiving and conducting training on software and apps from developers.  Before starting at Acton, he was employed by the New Haven Free Public Library as a reference librarian, where he both developed and taught various technology classes, including Internet Safety courses and primers on Microsoft Office.  Perduta has eight siblings and five foster siblings, whose ages range from 4-19, so he was able to get a first-hand look at current social media and app 'trends' for this workshop.

The Can We Talk? series is free but registration is requested so that we may plan for handouts and refreshments.  To register, please call OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or email yfs@town.old-saybrook.ct.us