Intelligence Squared Is Your Phone Controlling Your Life? With Kaitlyn Regehr (Part Two)
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May 22, 2025 
Kaitlyn Regehr, a renowned professor and expert on digital literacy, dives deep into our complex relationship with smartphones and social media. She discusses the alarming impacts of early device use on children and the importance of digital literacy at home. Regehr offers insights on creating a healthy 'digital diet,' emphasizing engaging interactions over mindless scrolling. She also explores the effect of AI on communication skills and advocates for better regulation of online content to ensure a safer digital environment for future generations.
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Device Introduction and Literacy
- Delay giving kids personal devices for as long as possible, preferring household-shared devices initially.
- Introduce digital literacy early so children can navigate smartphones safely when older.
Talking to Kids About Pornography
- Talk openly with kids about pornography early, explaining it's not real and differs from healthy relationships.
- Use age-appropriate analogies like superhero films to frame the conversation.
Supervise Kids' Digital Use
- Implement "shoulder surfing" by being physically present when children use devices to monitor content.
- Avoid relying on algorithm-driven platforms like YouTube Kids; choose healthier, long-form educational content instead.