Episode 17: Helping Kids Build Healthier Relationships with Technology

It’s no secret that, despite its many advantages, technology’s impact on kids and families isn’t always positive. Social media, video games, streamed content and smartphones surround us and our children, sometimes pulling us away from the present and affecting our mental health. At worst, unrestricted technology access can put kids’ safety at risk. In this episode of the EveryDayMatters Podcast, Tom Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, Netsmart, reconnects with Tracy Foster, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Screen Sanity, to discuss how families and communities can help children navigate a digital world. Their conversation dives into the wide-ranging work Screen Sanity does to equip parents with tools and knowledge to help kids build healthier relationships with technology through conversation, cooperation and age-appropriate boundaries. Founded in 2018, Screen Sanity continues to adapt its training courses and resources as new social media platforms emerge and the digital landscape evolves, helping parents and communities be proactive and effective in keeping children safe online. From social media’s impact on mental health to the importance of being present, Tom and Tracy discuss the role we all play in modeling healthy technology habits and how everyday choices can support children’s wellbeing. Check out the resources mentioned in today’s episode: Screen Sanity: Explore other Screen Sanity articles, interviews and real-world stories.Anxious Generation: A nonprofit advancing change through the ideas and research behind The Anxious Generation and The Amazing Generation, both #1 New York Times bestsellers.Oprah Winfrey Podcast Episode with Jonathan Haidt: A conversation about social media, screen time and mental healthScreen Sanity Parent Night Kit: Videos, discussion questions and handouts to host a digital wellness conversation Listening on a desktop and can’t see the links? Just search for EveryDayMatters in your favorite podcast player.