When it comes to setting school curriculum, are politicians pushing experienced educators out of the way? Americans say the government has better things to worry about. The Surgeon General warns about the dangers of social media use for children. We look at who the public believes is largely responsible for resolving the issue. And, we end with a fun fact about the backyard barbecue... what summer food are Americans craving the most?
A majority of Americans agree that teachers should be the ones responsible for setting school curriculum. However, book bans and laws prohibiting teachers from discussing content related to racial and LGBTQ+ issues highlight how politicians are getting directly involved in the education system. Public opinion shows parents think that the government has much more important responsibilities in protecting children from harm.
The U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, issued a warning in May about the danger social media poses to children's mental health. The document has recommendations that may not entirely line up with public opinion on the issue. Jacqueline Nesi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University (@jacquelinenesi), helps us decode the warning and suggests that a coalition of efforts will be necessary to protect children.
With July Fourth behind us and the rest of summer laying out ahead, it's time to satisfy all of your summertime food cravings! This week's fun fact will have you reaching for...?