The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 1KHO 540: Take Away the Screens and Go Outside | Mike McLeod, GrowNOW ADHD
Aug 4, 2025
Mike McLeod, an executive function specialist and founder of GrowNOW ADHD, dives into the screen-driven youth mental health crisis. He argues that reducing screen time is essential for developing vital skills like self-regulation and self-motivation. Mike shares insights from his upcoming book, highlighting the significance of executive functioning over grades. He discusses how parents can navigate technology, foster independence in children, and implement proactive strategies for real-life learning. This candid conversation empowers families to take action for better mental health outcomes.
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Screen Time Drives Mental Crisis
- The youth mental health crisis is a measurable screen-driven epidemic we can reverse.
- Elimination of screens and increased outside play is the fundamental cure to this crisis.
Executive Function Beats Grades
- Executive functioning skills predict life success much more than grades do.
- These skills allow independent living and social relationships, vital beyond academic achievement.
Train Schools on Exec Function
- Train school staff broadly on executive functioning to improve support for all students.
- Focus on practical strategies to develop self-regulation and motivation, not just organization.
