We all know taking away screens isn’t enough, especially when kids have personalized devices that feel like an extension of who they are. In this episode, we’ll talk about why replacement activities are essential, what makes them effective, and how to make this shift in your family without endless battles.

Family game nights are more than entertainment, they’re a powerful way to build connection, laughter, and teamwork, without a screen in sight. In this episode we discuss how to plan and host a no-stress, no-screen family game night that works for any age and any schedule. You’ll walk away with practical tips, creative game ideas, and a simple weekly challenge to get your family playing together... without anyone asking for a remote.

Parenting in today’s world is messy. Do I let my child work out conflicts, or do I step in? Should I really invite the whole class to the birthday party? How much screen time is okay? These are the kinds of questions parents whisper about, but rarely say out loud.

In this episode, Samantha (Beyond the Screen Families) and Molly (Friendship Builders) sit down to talk honestly about the unspoken worries and everyday dilemmas parents face.

Screens are everywhere, but how do we raise kids who can learn, play, and grow without being glued to them? In this episode, I’m joined by Danielle Lindner (@parentingtakespractice) to talk about the power of screen-free and screen-minimal learning. Danielle shares why hands-on experiences matter so much in early childhood, how to spark curiosity without relying on technology, and what families can do to create balance in their everyday routines.

Cozy family traditions are more than fun, they’re powerful tools for building lasting connection, grounding kids in belonging, and giving families anchor points in a busy, screen-filled world. In this episode of Beyond the Screen: The Family Connection Podcast, Dr. Samantha Hayes shares how to create simple, cozy traditions that don’t require perfection or Pinterest boards, but do create joy and connection your kids will remember for years to come.

In a world where kids are sitting more than ever - at school, at home, and in front of screen - movement isn’t just exercise. It’s a foundation for curiosity, creativity, connection, and capability. I

n this episode we share why movement matters so deeply for kids today, and how families can weave it into daily life in simple, screen-free ways. 

Kids love having a say in family life and when they’re included in planning, screen-free fun becomes something they’re excited about instead of something you have to convince them to do.

In this episode, Dr. Samantha Hayes shares simple strategies for bringing kids of all ages into the planning process, so they feel ownership, excitement, and joy about time spent together. 

In today’s digital world, it can feel impossible to raise kids who are both tech-savvy and truly present in their everyday lives. Really, though, it’s not an either/or. In this episode, Dr. Samantha Hayes shares practical strategies to help your child build strong tech skills while also staying grounded in real-world relationships and experiences.

Think you need to travel far to give your kids a memorable fall? Think again.

In this episode, we’ll explore easy, screen-free outdoor adventures that you can do right in your own backyard. From leaf investigations to flashlight tag, these ideas will spark curiosity, connection, and fall family fun.

Curiosity is a child’s superpower... but in a world full of scrolling, swiping, and passive consumption, that natural spark can start to fade. In this episode, Dr. Samantha Hayes shares how to protect and reignite curiosity in your kids.