Protecting Attention, Learning & Healthy Development in a Digital World (#271)

How are screens changing the way children learn, connect, and develop—and what can schools do about it?

In this episode, Melanie Hempe, RN, founder of ScreenStrong, shares a powerful presentation originally delivered to school principals and educational leaders. Drawing from her personal experience raising a son who struggled with video game addiction and more than a decade of research and work with families, Melanie explains what happens when interactive screens begin to compete with real-life experiences.

You'll learn:

• The difference between passive educational technology and highly stimulating interactive screens.
• How persuasive design and dopamine keep kids coming back for more.
• Why screen overuse can affect attention, motivation, emotional regulation, and social development.
• How excessive screen use can interfere with the biology of learning, including focus, empathy, productive struggle, and knowledge transfer.
• Practical ways schools can create more human-centered classrooms and phone-free lunchrooms.
• How educators can partner with parents to build healthier technology habits and protect childhood.

Technology is part of our world, but it doesn't have to take over childhood. It's time to rethink how we use screens in schools and put human connection, attention, and healthy development back at the center of education.

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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