Curiosity Weekly How to Not Raise an iPad Baby
Aug 27, 2025
Join neuroscientist Maryanne Wolf, a champion for children’s literacy, and psychology professor Daniel Willingham as they tackle the pressing issue of technology's impact on young minds. They explore how screen time is affecting attention spans and critical thinking skills in children. The experts discuss the importance of cultivating deep reading habits to enhance cognitive development and empathy. They also highlight the cultural shifts in literacy due to digital distractions, leaving listeners with actionable strategies for fostering healthier tech habits in kids.
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Scientists Faced Hostility During COVID
- A large survey found many scientists faced hostility and threats after public COVID commentary.
- That experience made scientists prefer in-person outreach and wary of online engagement.
Harassment Chills Online Science Outreach
- Second-hand reports of harassment predicted scientists' sense that public engagement is risky.
- Scientists remain willing to share but favor in-person venues over online channels.
Reading Builds A Unique Brain Circuit
- Reading recruits a complex, plastic brain circuit that links vision, language, reasoning, and emotion.
- Skimming on screens risks short-circuiting that deep-reading circuitry and its higher-order benefits.
