26: Delaney Ruston - Talking Tech With Your Kids

26: Delaney Ruston - Talking Tech With Your Kids

Picture this: your child glued to a screen, and you wondering how to strike a balance. In this episode of 'Ruthless Compassion', Dr. Marcia Sirota chats with Delaney Ruston, a filmmaker and physician who's tackled this very issue in her documentary, 'Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age'. Delaney, a mother of two, brings a unique perspective on how technology impacts our kids' lives and what parents can do about it.

Delaney's journey through filmmaking and medicine has given her a wealth of experiences to draw from. She’s screened her award-winning documentaries on mental health and technology worldwide, and now she’s sharing her insights on how families can navigate the digital landscape. One of the main takeaways? Communication is key. Delaney emphasizes the importance of having open, honest conversations with your kids about their screen time and creating an environment where they feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings.

But it's not just about talking; it's also about setting boundaries. Delaney discusses the need for parents to establish clear limits on screen use while still allowing kids to enjoy the positive aspects of technology. She also highlights the role of after-school programs in providing structure and reducing excessive screen time. Many kids lack access to these programs, which can lead to more screen use and less engagement in other activities.

Delaney suggests that communities come together to create more opportunities for kids to participate in after-school activities. Privacy and online safety are other crucial topics covered in the episode. Delaney advises parents to teach their children about privacy settings and how to protect themselves from online dangers like cyberbullying and predators. She also stresses the importance of parents modeling good online behavior themselves.

Throughout the conversation, Delaney shares stories from her work on 'Screenagers' and her interactions with families around the world. Her message is one of hope and practicality: with open communication, clear boundaries, and a balanced approach to technology, parents can help their children thrive in a digital world.