Cleveland International Film Festival } March 30 – April 10, 2022

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Chasing Childhood

Year: 2020
Country: UNITED STATES
Run Time: 80 minutes

Free play is a critical component of early childhood development. Yet contemporary parenting has nearly eliminated it. Skipping rope, playing tag, and partaking in friendly games of hide-and-seek have been exchanged for intense curriculums and rigid schedules of extracurricular activities designed to chart a path of success. But if this direction is key to raising healthier and more competitive students, why are experts observing, in both children and teens, increased anxiety and depression levels, which in extreme cases can even lead to suicidal thoughts? CHASING CHILDHOOD explores the growing trend for children to be overscheduled, overburdened, and overprotected yet still unprepared for the world. Profiling three communities working to shift the helicopter parenting culture, this documentary interviews well-intentioned parents, exhausted children, and concerned experts advocating for expanding play and fostering independence. The film examines how these practices can hopefully help raise happier, healthier, and more competent adults while also stimulating a dramatic cultural change in our education system. – R.R.

Content Warning: This film contains material that may be difficult for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.