Adolescenti in movimento

The book “Adolescenti in movimento” explores the world of todays adolescents, those born after 2010, the generation named Generation Alpha. The first part of the book contains 42 stories written by Generation Alpha adolescents. The stories are compelling and are the voices of todays youth. Some of the stories will make you cry; some will make you mad; others will put a smile on your face. They will all make you think and realize that this generation is looking for a way to ‘grow up’ in a world that is not perfect. A world recovering from a world-wide pandemic in which they and their families were locked down for months at a time. A world in which they see daily on television and the internet death and destruction from war. A world which is experiencing dramatic climate change events. And a world full of people who lie, cheat, bully, abuse, hurt and destroy. They are looking for help in their journey of ‘growing up’ in such a world. Facchinetti, an 11 year old, wisely stated: “Crescere è inevitabile e dobbiamo capire come farlo al meglio possibile.” (Growing up is inevitable and we need to figure out how to do it as best as possible.) The second part of the book is an analysis of and suggestions for helping Generation Alpha reach a healthy mental maturity. The theme through both parts of the book is ‘growing up’. The author, Marinella Ferranti, is a psychotherapist who works with children and their families. She draws from her years of experience and study. Her desire to help is evident in her writing. This part of the book is, in a sense, a parental ‘How To’ book. She provides advice to help you help your child ‘grow up’. It is an ongoing process for both the child and the parent. For me, one of the most important points that she makes is that for children to ‘grow up’, they need to be free to experience sadness and pain as well as joy and happiness. Being overprotective is not helping children learn how to deal with all their feelings and emotions. This is so true, but also as a parent so hard to do. We want to protect our children from all things ‘bad’. But that is impossible. We need to teach them how to deal with bad things for bad things will happen. This is a book that all parents should read. And not only parents, but also grandparents, aunts, uncles, childcare workers, teachers, coaches - anyone who is involved with children. The stories from the adolescents will help us all understand this generation a little better, and hopefully, the advice and suggestions will help us help those who are ‘growing up’!