News from the Superintendent's Office

Schools present "Play Again" - a documentary on the consequences of a childhood removed from nature

The School Department, along with the Cape Elizabeth parent associations and the Cape Elizabeth Land Trust, will host a free screening of the documentary "Play Again" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, in the High School auditorium.

According to a press release, The average American child now spends more than seven hours a day in front of a screen — playing video games, watching TV, surfing the Internet, texting friends. "Loss of contact with the natural world has implications not only for the well-being of the child but also for the future of the environment," the release says.

"Play Again" follows six teenagers as they experience their first wilderness adventure. Through the voices of children and of experts, the 80-minute documentary investigates the consequences of a childhood removed from nature and encourages action for a sustainable future. ""What they do not value, they will not protect. And what they do not protect they will lose," says one of the experts in the film.

The film is recommended for community members, parents, and children 10 and older.