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Unlock the secrets of balanced child development in the digital age with our insightful conversation featuring Dr. Alison Burrows, a Senior Lecturer at Middlesex University. Dr. Burrows, an expert in child development, education, and parenting, shares her wealth of knowledge on the challenges and potential pitfalls of integrating technology into classrooms. You'll learn about her groundbreaking research and her initiatives like ScreenWise Child UAE, which advocates for a smartphone-free childhood, providing parents with the tools they need to manage their children's technology use effectively.

Ever wondered how smartphones and social media impact your child's brain? Discover why the prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control and decision-making, can be overwhelmed by the addictive nature of modern apps. Dr. Burrows provides a compelling analysis of the shift from traditional play-based learning to screen-dominated childhoods, especially post-2010. Learn how mindful tech integration is crucial for ensuring balanced development and meaningful real-life experiences for your children.

Get practical! This episode is packed with actionable advice for managing your child’s screen time. We explore the differences between monitored use in educational settings versus unmonitored use at home, and the alarming rise in mood disorders and social difficulties linked to early device access. Dr. Burrows offers concrete strategies like turning off notifications, keeping devices out of bedrooms, and creating tech-free zones. Plus, we dive into the role of parents in modelling good tech habits and discuss the challenges posed by AI in education, underlining the importance of critical thinking skills. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that offers a comprehensive perspective on navigating technology in your child's life.

To find out more about Dr. Alison Burrows, visit her website here.