Are you worried about your kids' social media use? In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino weighs in with her insights, thoughts and suggestions. From tackling the prevalence of smartphones among teens to navigating the digital world as a non-digital native, she presents practical strategies for parents and pediatric professionals. By being curious, nonjudgmental, and seeking to understand our children’s digital experiences, we can build trust and open lines of communication. Together, let's work towards creating a safer digital environment for the kids. Take a listen for more insightful content, and let's empower each other to make a positive difference in the digital world!

[01:34 -04:15] Navigating the Digital Landscape: Children's Online Behavior and Risks

• Emphasizes the need for adults to understand and engage with what kids are doing online.
• Explores the potential risks of social media use, including mental health implications.
• Advocates for awareness and strategies to address sensitive topics like sexting.

[04:16 - 07:01]  Literacy and Responsible Behavior: Educating the Youth

• Suggesting that kids show the cool and positive aspects of their digital life to adults to bridge understanding.
• Discussing the impact of social media on the mental well-being of children as a public health concern.
• Promoting the idea that parents and caregivers should be role models for responsible digital behavior.

[07:02 - 09:57]  Social Media Education and Resources for Family Safety

• Social media can support educational and collaborative learning activities for children.
• Online educational materials offer valuable, easily accessible information tools.
• Resources are available to help families support children with ADHD through educational content.

[09:58 - 12:59] Navigating Digital Parenting Challenges

• Recognize the necessity for parents to engage with their kids about their online activities.
• Highlight the risk of normalizing mindless scrolling and unnecessary screen time.
• Stress the significance of setting a good example by avoiding phones during family interactions

You can reach Dr. Gaggino

Facebook:  Facebook

Instagram:  @pediatricmeltdown

Website: PediatricMeltdown.com 

Other episodes you may like:

https://pediatricmeltdown.com/episodes

Ep 182. Social Media Dangers: Protecting and Educating Youth

Ep 181. Social Media: Guidance for Youth and Families

Promotions

MC3 Clinical Pearls Video Series

https://mc3michigan.org/clinical-pearls-video-series/

National Network of Child Psychiatry Access Programs in the US

Map — NNCPAP National Network of Child Psychiatry Access Programs

 Key quotes for Twitter:

"Despite the fact that some adults believe that the only way that we can protect kids is to ban them from TikTok or to never buy them a phone, I think the proverbial cat is out of the bag”…. Dr. Lia Gaggino on navigating the digital age and protecting youth

"You might learn something, and it might build some trust, and it really shows that we're interested in what they think and what they have to say.".... Dr. Lia Gaggino on bridging the generation gap

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Pediatric Meltdown was listed as a Top 20 Pediatric Podcast on FeedSpot.

If you’d like to connect with me, you can Tap the “What Are Your Thoughts” button at the top of the notes or you can find me on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, or email me at [email protected]. To learn more about me visit https://www.pediatricmeltdown.com

LOVE WHAT YOU HEARD? Leave us a 5-star review so we can continue to provide you with great content. Share this episode and help people know more about children’s health and well-being.