ScreenStrong Families

Originally aired: March, 2022
Melanie welcomes back Dr. Richard Freed, author of Wired Child and a practicing Clinical Psychologist and supervisor studying the effects of technology on children. He is on the advisory board of ScreenStrong and is a contributor to many well-respected publications. A link to Dr. Freed’s article, The Tech Industry’s War on Kids, is included in the show notes. 
Melanie asks Richard to provide our listeners his perspective on frequently asked questions from parents related to screens in the classroom, how to modify and/or request help with reducing screen use for homework, how to request a support letter for an in-school accommodation for your child, and one of the most difficult questions to answer, what to say to your child that is struggling with addictive behaviors. 
Their discussion addresses how technology has changed the school experience and learning opportunities for our children, which have significantly impacted children's development of Social Emotional Learning (SEL), which encompasses the growth of personal identity, communication, empathy, and healthy connections with parents, teachers, and coaches within the overall community setting. Lastly, Melanie and Richard provide an overview of tips pulled from their conversation today with an emphasis on strong parenting, reducing screens in schools, and re-establishing the strong guidance and love our kids need from us from elementary through high school and beyond. 
REFERENCES: The Tech Industry’s War on Kids by Dr. Richard Freed
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ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)
Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

In this episode, Melanie and Dr. Stacey explore how teachers and parents can collaborate to create a phone-free school environment. Teachers can support the policy by using research-backed education, setting an example with their own phone use, and staying alert to signs of phone overuse, like distracted behavior and declining grades. Parents play a crucial role by supporting the school’s efforts, limiting contact with kids during school hours, and encouraging phone-free days.
For parents wanting to go further, we’ll also discuss becoming a Phone-Free Champion in your school, organizing fun, tech-free activities that encourage socializing and new hobbies.

Tune in to learn how phone-free schools can help students stay focused, build friendships, and feel more connected.

Download our Phone-Free School Resource Guide.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW Adventures of Super Brain book!
Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!
Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products.
Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!
ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)
Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Originally aired November 8, 2023.
In this episode, Melanie has a very special guest—her daughter, Melissa! In this episode, we will hear how Melissa feels about growing up without social media or a smartphone. They discuss an overview of teen brain science, what makes social media irresistible for teens, the risks for teen girls, and end with some practical tips for parents. You will enjoy the candid nature of this conversation and will be inspired to make some changes in your home!
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW Adventures of Super Brain book!
Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!
Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products.
Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!
ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)
Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Today we welcome back Dr. Adriana Stacey,  a Board Certified Psychiatrist, for part two of her discussion with Melanie. In this episode they cover why going cold-turkey with screen removal may be the best option for your family and offer tips and tricks for handling addictive behavior.

Dr. Stacey's areas of specialty include female mental health treatment, including treatment of depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, insomnia, and sports psychiatry. 
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW Adventures of Super Brain book!
Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!
Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products.
Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!
ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)
Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Do you want to prevent your middle Schooler from becoming dependent on screen time this summer? Join Melanie as she offers practical strategies to Emily, a ScreenStrong Ambassador and concerned middle school mom, to keep tweens engaged and social without resorting to video games or social media. 

Get inspired and discover how to make this summer a ScreenStrong success for your family!
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW Adventures of Super Brain book!
Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!
Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products.
Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!
ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)
Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin