Melanie welcomes Cris Rowan, who is a registered pediatric occupational therapist, certified sensory specialist (SIPT), biologist, author of "Virtual Child", and prolific speaker on the impact of technology on child development and learning.

Melanie and Cris start their conversation discussing the 4 Critical Factors needed for the developing child which include movement, touch, human connection, and nature. Cris emphasizes a focus on increased engagement of these factors to create the foundation your child needs for healthy development of their brain and body.

Melanie and Cris also unpack her 2017 article Cris wrote for HuffPost, 10 Reasons Why Hand-Held Devices Should Be Banned for Children Under the Age of 12 and how those reasons cited relate to these 4 Critical Factors.

This episode is so full of science-based information that supports the reduction of screens and promotes the focus on a daily practice of movement, touch, human connection and nature.

You won’t want to skip this one!

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Production Team:

Host: Melanie Hempe
Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Four Critical Factors Needed for Building Strong Kids with Cris Rowen (#57)