Robot Unicorn The Impact Of Social Media, Gaming And Smartphones On Kids
Jun 9, 2025
Dive into the challenges of social media and screen time for kids! Experts discuss the risks of cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and how screens impact mental health. Discover the fine balance between the benefits of connection and education versus addiction and brain development concerns. Learn strategies for setting boundaries, explaining decisions to children, and modeling healthy digital habits. Plus, hear about the dangers of platforms like Snapchat and exciting alternatives to outright bans. Equip yourself for navigating this tech-savvy world!
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Short-Form Clips Shrink Attention
- Long-form screens (movies, co-watching) differ from short-form feeds in attention impact.
- Jess says short, highly stimulating clips train brains to expect constant novelty and reduce sustained attention.
Exposure Is Broad And Hard To Process
- Online exposure ranges from mildly inappropriate to pornographic and is easy for kids to access.
- Jess warns this spectrum of content overwhelms a child's ability to process and harms development.
Screens Extend Friendship Harm
- Social platforms extend friendship conflicts and cyberbullying beyond school hours.
- Jess highlights Snapchat and gaming chats that can isolate or groom children outside parental view.