20Somethings Connect Over Crafts And Games At Temple Library

At a time when the world is more connected than ever, one segment of the population is battling loneliness. The Temple, Texas library wants to help alleviate those feelings of isolation.

Unplug at the Temple, Texas Library

Gen Z' ers looking for a chance to unplug and socialize face to face can do so at the Temple Library’s 20Something Sunday Social on the 3rd Sunday of each month. Every month offers a different theme that is based on what’s trending with Gen Z.

 Upcoming Events

The month of September is all about self-care with crafts that soothe the mind. October means Halloween, so look for plenty of spooky activities. November is all about anime-inspired games and crafts. The event is for those between the ages of 20 and 29 and no registration is required!

Why In Person Interaction Matters

Recent studies have found that despite being connected online, many Americans are quite lonely. A survey by health insurer Cigna found that Generation Z is the most isolated generation. In the past, the teenage years were a time of self-discovery and social interaction with other teenagers. Covid lockdowns stranded Gen Z at home, and they missed an important part of the socialization process. The wearing of masks also interfered with social growth in that facial expressions and vocal inflections were blocked and muffled.

The toll of Social Media on the Psyche

Constant social media use creates feelings of inadequacy which can be detrimental to the mental and emotional health of a young person. According to clinical psychologist Catherine Steiner-Adair, EdD, many in Gen Z have not developed critical social skills like body language, facial expression, and vocal reactions.

Games That Offer Great Interaction

Playing board games is a great, stress-free way to interact with other people. The difficulty level of games can vary, but the list below contains tried and true all-time favorites that everyone can enjoy.

The 10 Top-Selling Board Games

Chess: More than 3 million units are sold yearly in the U.S. alone.

Checkers: 50 billion units sold since introduction

Monopoly: More than 275 million units sold

Scrabble: More than 150 million units sold

Clue: More than 150 million units sold

Battleship: More than 100 million units sold

Trivial Pursuit: More than 100 million units sold

Backgammon: More than 88 million units sold

Candy Land: More than 50 million units sold

Rummikub: More than 50 million units sold