1KHO 409: Screens are Experience Killers | Mike McCleod, GrowNOW ADHD
Jan 3, 2025
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Mike McCleod, an executive functioning coach and parent trainer at GrowNOW ADHD, returns to discuss the hidden crises in education and parenting. He highlights the detrimental effects of screens on child development and advocates for outdoor play and real-life experiences as essential for children's success. Mike offers powerful strategies for managing screen time, emphasizing the importance of community involvement. He shares inspiring success stories from families who have replaced screens with meaningful activities, leading to remarkable transformations in their children.
The detrimental impact of screens on childhood development underscores the necessity for increased outdoor play and real-life interactions.
Executive functioning skills are essential for academic success, with many students unprepared for the independence of college life due to educational shortcomings.
A balanced approach to technology in schools is vital, as excessive reliance can hinder meaningful learning and contribute to student disengagement.
Deep dives
The Importance of Outdoor Play
Children need ample opportunities for outdoor play to develop social skills and emotional regulation. The discussion emphasizes that screen time negatively impacts kids, limiting their ability to engage in face-to-face play. Through outdoor experiences, children not only interact with peers but also cultivate essential life skills. A reduction in recess time in schools, like the controversial cut to 20 minutes, can hinder children's development and well-being.
Executive Functioning Challenges
Many children are entering college without the necessary executive functioning skills, which are critical for academic success. The lack of training in executive functioning during K-12 education results in students becoming overwhelmed when faced with the increased independence of college life. The podcast highlights that a significant portion of students struggle with academics even after being accepted to colleges due to inadequate preparation. The conversation underscores a growing need for targeted support systems and programs to help students transition from high school to higher education.
The Role of Technology in Education
The increasing reliance on technology in schools, such as laptops and tablets for young children, is scrutinized for its detrimental effects. The podcast reveals that technology often distracts kids from meaningful learning and engagement, instead fostering negative behaviors. Over-accommodating students with technology may not address their actual needs but rather contribute to a downward spiral of disengagement. Experts advocate for a balanced approach that introduces technology in a limited and controlled manner.
Successful Programs and Community Support
Programs like executive functioning coaching and summer camps are crucial for helping children build necessary life and social skills. The podcast discusses a successful summer camp that emphasizes experience-based learning while being screen-free, providing kids with opportunities to explore and grow. Communities can support parents in advocating for reduced screen time and increased outdoor play for children, ultimately leading to healthier lifestyles. Sharing success stories can inspire other parents to take similar steps toward creating a supportive environment for their kids.
Navigating Screen Time and Parenting
Parents face significant challenges when managing screen time for their children, often resorting to technology as a temporary solution for peace. The podcast emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries around screens to encourage healthier habits and emotional development. By removing addictive screens, parents can foster engagement in outdoor activities, sports, and other interests that promote a more balanced lifestyle. Long-term benefits include improved social skills and emotional intelligence, further preparing children for successful transitions into adulthood.
One of our most beloved guests, Mike McCleod of GrowNOW ADHD, returns to the 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to unpack the hidden crisis in today’s education and parenting landscapes. Mike and host Ginny Yurich delve into the detrimental effects of screens on childhood development, why executive functioning—not test scores—is the greatest predictor of success, and how the overuse of technology in schools is failing our kids. Mike shares powerful strategies for parents to reclaim their child’s natural potential through outdoor play, real-life experiences, and community involvement.
In this thought-provoking conversation, Mike offers a fresh perspective on managing screen time and overcoming the challenges of modern parenting. He highlights real-life success stories of families who replaced screens with meaningful activities and witnessed remarkable transformations in their children. Packed with actionable advice, this episode empowers parents to push back against harmful tech norms and create an environment where kids thrive.
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Learn more about GrowNOW ADHD and the coaching they provide to parents and educators as well here. Don't forget to check out Mike's podcast as well and you can also find information about bringing Mike in to speak on his website as well.
You can find GrowNOW ADHD on Instagram at @grownowadhd