In this episode, parenting expert Dr. Wendy Mogel discusses the challenges of kids' device attachment during the pandemic. The chapter explores the impact of screen time, the importance of outdoor activities and laughter with children, and the transformative impact of the pandemic. Dr. Mogel also provides advice for parents on navigating the post-COVID stage and emphasizes the power of empathy and collaborative decision-making.
Parents should model responsible tech use and avoid double standards when addressing their children's screen time.
Finding a balance between setting boundaries and allowing autonomy is crucial in helping children make responsible decisions in their tech use.
Deep dives
Balancing Screen Time in a Post-Pandemic World
In this podcast episode, psychologist and author Wendy Mogel discusses the challenge parents face in limiting their children's screen time, especially after the increased reliance on devices during the pandemic. She highlights the importance of modeling responsible tech use and avoiding double standards. Despite the concerns about excessive device use, Mogel recognizes the positive aspects of social media and online connections. She emphasizes the need for parents to connect with their children, encourage outdoor activities, and allowing them to experience 'consequential strangers' and constructive risks. Rather than enforcing rigid rules, Mogel suggests finding a balance between setting boundaries and allowing autonomy for kids to make responsible decisions. She urges parents not to worry excessively or be too influenced by societal expectations, but to listen to their children and make decisions based on their individual needs and family dynamics.
Reflecting on Technological Addiction and Street Smarts
The episode also delves into concerns about technological addiction and how it affects children's ability to understand and navigate real-world dangers. Mogel highlights the importance of balance and moderation in tech use and emphasizes the need for children to experience real-life social interactions and outdoor activities. While technology offers benefits in connectivity and knowledge sharing, Mogel acknowledges the risks of excessive screen time and the challenge parents face in setting effective rules and restrictions. She urges parents to avoid instilling fear, but also not to dismiss their concerns. Mogel advises parents to encourage laughter, create rituals, and provide opportunities for children to engage with the world, build street smarts, and connect with consequential strangers outside of their online circles.
Finding the Right Approach in a Changing World
As the conversation shifts toward finding solutions, Wendy Mogel emphasizes the need for individualized approaches based on each child's temperament and interest. She advises parents to avoid comparing their children's tech use with others and to resist societal pressures. Mogel suggests families find a balance between using technology responsibly while also prioritizing activities that promote connection, nature, and real-life experiences. She encourages parents to be open to their children's perspectives, engage in dialogue, and make decisions that align with their family's values. Rather than focusing on rigid rules, she emphasizes modeling responsible tech use and nurturing children's capacity to make good judgments, which includes understanding personal limits and allowing for mistakes and growth.
Embracing the Transformational Revolution of Technology
The conversation also touches on the profound impact of technology on human consciousness and societal change. Mogel compares the current transformation with the advent of the printing press, acknowledging both the drawbacks and the positive potential of technological advancements. She suggests that rather than resisting or fearing technology, society should seek to create a balance that includes reflection, awe, human connection, and experiences beyond the digital realm. Mogel emphasizes the importance of laughter, celebration, and recognizing the small, delightful moments in life. She encourages parents to use their own judgment, not be swayed by societal noise, and focus on the unique needs of their children as they navigate a rapidly changing technological landscape.
During the pandemic, we’ve been looking at our screens more than ever before. As the country starts reopening, what do we do about our kids’ extreme attachment to their devices? How should we think about it and do we need to do anything about it?
Parenting expert Dr. Wendy Mogel joins us to discuss these deep questions about pandemic parenting. Dr. Mogel is the author of “The Blessing of a Skinned Knee” and host of the podcast Nurture vs. Nurture.