Are Classroom Screens Helping Kids Learn, or Quietly Working Against Their Brains? with Neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (#257)

Are Classroom Screens Helping Kids Learn, or Quietly Working Against Their Brains? with Neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (#257)

Author: Melanie Hempe, BSN March 5, 2026 Duration: 50:20
Are classroom screens really helping children learn—or quietly working against how their brains develop? In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath joins us to discuss his new book The Digital Delusion and what the science actually says about technology in the classroom. For years, schools have been told that more technology means better learning. But many of the ideas that built the EdTech movement—like “multimedia enhances learning,” “kids learn best on their own,” and “AI tut...

Melanie Hempe is a nurse who saw a problem up close when her own son left college, struggling with a video game addiction. That personal experience became the catalyst for ScreenStrong Families, a podcast where she translates complex medical science into everyday language for parents. Instead of fearmongering, Melanie offers a steady, evidence-based conversation about screens, gaming, and healthy child development. Each episode feels like a practical discussion with a knowledgeable friend who has been in the trenches. You’ll hear from Melanie directly, drawing on her background and the work of ScreenStrong, as she breaks down why digital habits form and how families can build a healthier home culture. The focus is on real-world solutions-actionable steps that move beyond simply limiting screen time to fostering stronger connections and more engaging alternatives. This isn't about shame or blame; it's about empowerment and understanding the neuroscience behind addiction to make informed choices. Tune in for a compassionate, clear-headed resource that addresses the modern challenges of raising kids in a digital world. The ScreenStrong Families podcast is a guide for anyone looking to reclaim childhood from screens and strengthen family relationships in the process.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

ScreenStrong Families
Podcast Episodes
Is Big Tech Responsible for Our Kids' Mental Health? (#186) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:52
In today's episode, we delve into a critical discussion sparked by the recent Senate hearings on Big Tech. Join us as we share an enlightening segment from a media interview featuring Melanie Hempe, where she addresses t…
Kids’ Brains and Screens: Revolutionizing Screen Education (#185) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:37
Get ready because it's almost here! In this exciting episode, Melanie and Mandee unveil the highly anticipated print curriculum "Kids’ Brains and Screens" (KBS), slated for release on March 1, 2024. But this isn't your t…