This is your brain. This is your brain on social media.

We know kids are going to spend time on their phones—it’s a big part of their world. But too much screen time can take a toll on their brain development. When kids are on their phones, their brains are often in a passive state, rapidly consuming information without deep processing. Social media and games trigger dopamine releases, which can create a cycle of instant gratification and short attention spans. In contrast, reading strengthens focus and imagination, social time builds emotional intelligence, and physical activity boosts mood, memory, and cognitive function. Matter Neuroscience shared a post on Instagram (ironic to send you there, we know) that shows this phenomenon visually. It’s really interesting and worth a look. 
 
Here are some ways you can help: 

1. Set reasonable screen time limits, create tech-free zones like at the dinner table and before bed.
2. Encourage activities that actually engage their brains—like reading, outdoor play, or even just making eye contact with another human like in the good old days.  
3. Model healthy screen habits yourself!

For a deeper dive into the effects of screen time and the developing brain, please see this week’s blog post.