<p>California Assembly Bill 2071 would require California middle and high schools that offer health education classes to incorporate the topic of digital wellness into existing mental health instruction.</p>
<p>Digital wellness instruction would address the relationship between technology use and mental health. California teachers would have discretion to cover additional topics appropriate to their grade level, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>The relationship between digital technology use and mental health</li>
<li>Effects of excessive screen time </li>
<li>Strategies for building healthy digital habits</li>
<li>Online safety</li>
<li>Evaluating digital content for credibility and recognizing misleading or manipulative information</li>
<li>Awareness of AI</li>
<li>Positive uses of technology to support health and learning</li>
<li>School and community resources for digital wellness</li>
</ul>
<p>If you reside in California, now is the time to reach out to your legislators and urge them to AB2071 to ensure our kids and teens are equipped with the skills and tools they need to be safe, healthy, and competent online. </p>
<p>Media Literacy Now is proud to join GENup and Media Education Lab in championing AB2071. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>