Connected & Courageous: The Art and Science of Showing Up For Kids in the Digital Age

What if the key to navigating teens and technology isn’t in having all the answers but in asking the right questions? In this season finale of Connected & Courageous: Tech & Teens, host Erin unpacks the biggest takeaways from this mini-series. From cyberbullying to online creativity, what are the consistent threads that experts keep pointing to?Tune in for a reflection on the guideposts that matter most when the digital landscape feels overwhelming. Plus, Erin shares a powerful invitation: one simple step you can take today to connect with the young people in your life. Don’t miss this wrap-up!

Parents often ask whether or not gifting technology is the “right thing to do.” But instead of asking questions about “right or wrong” or “good or bad,” research indicates that the when, why, what, and with whom of technology is just as important as the mere presence or absence of a new device or game.In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:Pausing to reflect on the purpose of tech gifts. Essential questions to ask about tech gifts before buying them. How to wrap up your tech gifts with intention and care.Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Research on the “average teen” doesn’t always capture the complex realities of our own kids. This is certainly true when it comes to the often-misunderstood tech practices of teens with autism. As you will hear in this episode, Dr. Meryl Alper of Northeastern University imagines a future that centers the worldviews, needs, and desires of neurodivergent and disabled youth.Erin talks to Dr. Meryl Alper about:Why constant coverage of risks ignores the unique benefits that tech can offer autistic youthAre all youth with autism really “good” at tech? And other harmful tropes to watch out for.How neurodivergent teens are navigating their identities on TikTokSpecific considerations for parents and educators to keep in mind related to online safety and thriving for neurodivergent kids.Featured Expert:Dr. Meryl Alper - https://merylalper.com/

Few of us experience technology transitions with ease and joy one hundred percent of the time. Handing over a device or wrapping up a gaming session can ignite a range of feelings for young people. This, in turn, can ignite a range of feelings in the adults around them. It doesn’t always go well.In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:What is going on inside kids during screen time transitions.Practical strategies for avoiding power struggles and building skills.Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

While there are certainly “online only” threats, tech also tends to mirror and magnify offline dynamics we shouldn’t ignore - including racial discrimination. In this episode, researcher and professor Dr. Henry Willis of the University of Maryland shares insights on how online and offline experiences of racism are connected and highlights both the resilience of Black youth and the unique challenges they face in the digital age.Erin talks to Dr. Henry Willis about:The relationship between online and offline racial discrimination and mental health outcomes for youthWhy resilience is as important to talk about as risk - especially when it comes to Black youthWhy he isn’t interested in doing research that “sits on the shelf”The importance of positive racial identity for mental health and resilience.Featured Expert:Dr. Henry Willis - https://psyc.umd.edu/facultyprofile/willis/henryFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Social media and constant news updates can overwhelm our nervous systems, yet our brains are wired to seek out information during uncertain times. These times demand our engagement. So how do we ensure that our digital habits allow us to do so thoughtfully and without sacrificing our mental health?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:Why we need to watch out for "reassurance-seeking loops" on our devicesWhy "looking inward" is as important as "looking outward" during times of uncertaintySimple strategies for digital breaks without disconnecting completelyFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Everyone has a strong opinion when it comes to when kids should get their first device. But what does the science say?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:What the data does and doesn’t tell us about first phones.Why identifying a specific age often loses the point.A compelling framework to help you decide how and when to introduce personal tech.Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.Mentioned in this episode:First Device GuideNew devices require new parenting strategies, new conversations, and new mindsets. Get Spark & Stitch Institute’s “First Device Guide” to help your family make the best choice for your family: https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/first-device-guide/

If there is one topic that we adults tend to both AVOID talking about and are in desperate need of information and support around - it’s internet porn. Yet teens rely on us to get these conversations started. That’s why it is so helpful that we have people like Dr. Megan Maas to hold our hands. As she reminds us in this episode: “In our media saturated world we no longer have the luxury of silence.”Erin talks to Dr. Megan Maas about:Why teens need you to step into your roles as “sex socializers” (spoiler alert: you don’t need to memorize an entire sex ed book for these conversations)Why today’s free online porn is different from pornographic material from your childhoodHow online porn may impact your kids’ health and wellbeingWays to get conversations started - including specific talking points.Featured Expert:Dr. Megan Maas -https://www.meganmaas.com/Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.Mentioned in this episode:Connected & Courageous listeners can receive 50% off Dr. Maas' online courseCheck out Dr. Maas' new online course, called PopPorn Parents. It is a one-of-a-kind course that teaches you everything you wish they didn't need to know about pop culture, pornography, and so much more. PopPorn Parents will help you gain knowledge, shed embarrassment, and establish a strong relationship that can handle difficult, but important conversations so your tweens and teens can thrive. Use code SPARKSTITCH at checkout to receive the discount: https://popporn.thinkific.com/courses/PopPornParents

What is real self-esteem? And can we build kids up on the same treadmill of feedback that brought them down?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:Three myths of the modern self-esteem movementThe quicksands of social comparison and self-esteem onlineHow to help kids build real self-esteemFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

When it comes to body image and the media, the focus has long been on girls. Yet a recent study found that hospitalizations for boys with eating disorders has risen by 400% in the last two decades. Our guest today, Dr. Jason Nagata of University of California San Francisco, dives into the hidden impacts of eating disorders across all genders, cultures, and identities. Most importantly, he shares ways to support teens who are struggling.Erin talks to Dr. Jason Nagata about:Ways to distinguish between “health promoting” activities and signs of struggle.Why we shouldn’t ignore the body image and mental health struggles of boys, trans, and non-binary youth.The surprising red flags in social media content that go unnoticed when we focus only on girls and thinness.Practical steps to take if you’re worried about a young person in your life.Featured Expert:Dr. Jason Nagata - https://profiles.ucsf.edu/jason.nagataFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

There are renewed calls to delay social media as long as possible. What do we know about what teens need from adults as their digital worlds expand?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:Whether there is a case to delay social mediaWhy middle school is a window of sensitivity and a window of opportunityWhat all middle schoolers need regardless of when they get their first accountsFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

We talk a lot ABOUT tech and teens, but what do young people have to say about their digital experiences? How can their insights shape solutions? In this episode, “critical optimist” and researcher Dr. Emily Weinstein from the Center for Digital Thriving at Harvard Graduate School of Education explores the power of curious questions and shares actionable ways to team up with teens for a healthier relationship with tech.Erin talks to Dr. Emily Weinstein about:Youth perspectives on artificial intelligence (AI) and the insights from teens that she can’t get out of her head.One question you can ask teens TODAY about generative AI.Practical tools and strategies for digital wellbeing and why discussing values and thinking traps is key.Why we need all hands on deck right now for digital thriving.Featured Expert:Dr. Emily Weinstein - https://digitalthriving.gse.harvard.edu/about/emily-weinstein/Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

It’s easy to assume that Friendships + Phones = Inevitable decline in relationship quality. But is that always the case?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:What the research says about technoference and “social digital multitasking”Why digital design can make it hard to prioritize the friendships in front of usDigital age relationship skills that all of us need to practiceThe essential question about friendships that is more important than just the presence or absence of phonesFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Whether experienced online, offline, or both - cyberbullying, cruelty, and exclusion are deeply painful experiences. We want to do everything in our power to protect kids in these moments. But what does your teen actually need from you? Dr. Elizabeth Englander, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center, offers the grounded advice you need to support your teen through these challenges.Erin talks to Dr. Elizabeth Englander about:Why solutions are not always the thing kids need in the wake of bullying and cruelty.Why it is important to understand that we generally only know a tiny snapshot of what is happening between kids sociallyThe practice that is more effective than confiscating phonesThe most important thing kids can do if they witness cruelty online or in person.Featured Expert:Dr. Elizabeth Englander - https://www.englanderelizabeth.com/Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Attention is one of our most precious resources - how do we use it wisely in a world of digital distractions?In this episode, Erin reads an article that explores:Why it is so hard to focus in a sea of digital distractions.How our brain pays attentionPractical strategies to focus on what matters most.Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

The relationship between technology use and adolescent well-being is indeed... complicated. But this episode is for you if you are suffering from complexity fatigue. Dr. Katie Davis, Director of the University of Washington Digital Youth Lab, delivers compelling guidance that cuts through the noise without compromising the research. This is no small feat!Erin talks to Dr. Katie Davis about:A guiding framework to help you discern - When does technology support adolescent development, and when does it not?Why paying attention to platform design really shapes the answer to that question.Practical strategies for helping teens develop more mindful tech use.Why being a “good enough” digital parent is often just what teens need.Featured Expert:Dr. Katie Davis - https://katiedavisresearch.com/Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

In this first expert interview of our mini-series on teens and tech, we are jumping right into the issue that is on everyone’s mind: social media and adolescent wellbeing. If you want rigid rules and prescriptive guidelines, this may not be the episode for you. But if you are hoping for thoughtful and evidence-based insights, Dr. Linda Charmaraman from the Youth, Media, and Wellbeing Research Lab at Wellesley College is the perfect guide.Erin talks to Dr. Linda Charmaraman about:Why adolescence is a time brimming with possibility - not just riskWhy research on the “average adolescent” may not always be the most helpful for you and your teenThe power of near peers in changing digital habitsThe surprising thing that bubbles to the top of the list of concerns for this leading expertFeatured Expert:Dr. Linda Charmaraman - https://www.wcwonline.org/Active-Researchers/linda-charmaraman-phdFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

In this first episode of “Erin Reads”, Erin sets important context for this mini-series by inviting us to hold three truths about tech and teens at the same time:We don’t have to wait for scientific proof of universal harm to teens to create a safer and healthier internet.We do need to take into account the complexity of young people's relationship to tech to craft good policy and better support teens.We need collective solutions that address more than just social media if we care about adolescent mental health.We have an opportunity to build a better internet - if we move forward with adolescent needs, strengths, and development in mind.Follow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastConnected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth K. Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.

Welcome to Connected & Courageous: The Art and Science of Showing Up for Kids in the Digital Age, a new podcast from Spark & Stitch Institute.If there is a time to step meaningfully into the digital lives of kids, this is it. But how? Season 1 launches with a limited series on tech and teens. Get expert interviews, answers to your most urgent questions, and practical strategies for prioritizing what matters most: staying connected to kids as their digital worlds expand.Resources discussed in this episode can be found here: sparkandstitchinstitute.com/podcastFollow us on Instagram @SparkandStitch, on Facebook @SparkandStitchInstitute, and LinkedIn @erin-walsh-spark-and-stitch.Connected & Courageous is a podcast of Spark & Stitch Institute with production support from Beth Gibbs at Lift Podcasting.