Parenting in the Digital Age: milestones, play, screen time, ADHD & Autism with Anel Annandale

How much do the first five years really matter? A lot. Child psychologist Anel Annandale (Child Psych) explains why brain “wiring,” play-based learning, and co-regulation at home set kids up for school—and life. We unpack practical screen-time boundaries, low-cost activities that actually work, and the early signs of ADHD or autism that are too easy to overlook—especially for girls. We also highlight new neuropsych insights putting mental health at the center of learning: kids focus best when anxiety is low and safety is high. Topics Covered: 🧠 Early brain development & why 0–5 is foundational. 🎲 Play that teaches (without fancy toys). 📱 Screen-time that doesn’t melt down your day (earn-based & low-stimulation swaps). 😮‍💨 Tantrums & co-regulation: staying calm and teaching EQ in real time. 🧩 ADHD & autism: earlier, smarter identification; why girls get missed. ❤️ Mental health before academics: the neuropsych case for safety first. 🇿🇦 SA context: resource gaps, community support, and making ECD work on a budget. Resources 🔗 Child Psych: https://www.childpsych.co.za/ 🔗 Training Portal: https://www.trainingportal.co.za/ Enjoyed this episode? Follow the podcast for more conversations with experts shaping education and development across South Africa.