Can the outdated laws meant to protect children in the digital world keep up with the rapidly advancing technology? Join us as we engage in an enlightening discussion with Kris Perry, a passionate advocate for early childhood safety. Kris shares his unique journey from growing up in a family of educators to becoming a social worker and child abuse investigator. We explore the critical need for updated legislation to safeguard children online, delving into the shortcomings of the Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act and the potential impact of new measures like the Kids Online Safety Act. With insights into state-level efforts in New York, California, Maryland, and Vermont, Kris paints a vivid picture of the legal and political hurdles in creating a safer digital environment for our youth.

We tackle the complexities of technology's role in childhood development, balancing it with the necessity for healthy practices. From screen time guidelines for the youngest among us to the importance of media literacy in adolescence, Kris and I discuss how to navigate this digital landscape. His background as a child abuse investigator brings a unique perspective on the pervasive data collection practices that threaten children's privacy. Listeners will find valuable strategies for fostering healthier relationships with technology, from delaying personal devices to establishing screen-free zones. This episode equips parents, educators, and policymakers with the knowledge to better protect and prepare children for the digital challenges ahead.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• [00:00:45] Kris’s background
• [00:02:45] How Kris got into the work she’s doing now
• [00:04:15] Existing technology laws to protect children
• [00:08:49] The complexity of age requirements for children
• [00:12:57] At what age Kris would give a child a smartphone
• [00:17:28] The role of screens in education and the lack of guidance around it
• [00:21:59] Online exploitation that parents should be aware of
• [00:25:13] The coming rise in litigation related to the mental health effects of using technology
• [00:27:49] How teen development intersects with technology use
• [00:29:23] What’s being done with data collected from children
  [00:33:29] Advice for people who want to rein in screen time usage at any age
• [00:37:16] How AI might affect young children
• [00:40:55] Resources for listeners
• [00:42:07] Kris’s final thoughts

Resources

Marnetta Larrimer

Kris Perry

How could strengthening Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) impact literacy? And does it?

New research shows it does. This conversation, hosted originally as a webinar through EdWeb, covers new research out of CASEL that shows how SEL supports literacy development, along with Teachstone’s evidence of meaningful adult-child interactions in the classroom. This panel of experts will discuss how SEL can boost literacy skills in early childhood and elementary grades and share strategies leaders can use to support educators’ positive impact on their students.

Marnetta leads a discussion with Teachstone’s Dr. Bridget Hammer, David Adams of Urban Assembly, and Dr. Carol Lee of Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL).

Looking for more ways to support your workforce in this journey?

Check out our free E-book: 3 Steps To Empower an Educator Workforce: The Supportive Leader’s Guide To Building and Retaining an Energized Team

Unlock the secrets of effective leadership and revolutionary education in our latest episode featuring Darrell Brown from ITAV (It Takes a Village) Schools. Discover how Darrell, as the Director of Teaching, Learning, and Quality Practice, utilizes servant leadership to build trust-based relationships with educators and overcome challenges like outdated technology. Learn how these innovative approaches not only create a positive working environment but also significantly enhance the educational experiences of young students.

We then pivot to the transformative potential of holistic education. Imagine schools that serve as comprehensive community hubs addressing not just educational needs but also family support, mental health, and food insecurities. Through the lens of ITAV Family of Schools, we illustrate the profound impact of providing these resources on fostering equity and inclusion. Get inspired by real-world examples of how intentional and proactive strategies can uplift entire communities and shift the educational landscape.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• [00:00:00] Introduction
• [00:01:41] ITAV Schools and what Darrell does there
• [00:04:10] The concept of servant leadership and the importance of being a supportive resource and building trust-based relationships with educators
• [00:09:37] Parallels between what Darrwl does and how Teachstone is using CLASS
• [00:10:55] The role of ITAV Schools in addressing teacher shortages through workforce development programs, and how these efforts contribute to creating a positive working environment
• [00:16:07] What attracted Darrell to servant leadership
• [00:18:39] The transformative potential of holistic education, where schools serve as comprehensive community hubs addressing family support, mental health, and food insecurities
• [00:21:57]] The importance of being intentional and proactive in understanding and meeting the broader needs of students and their families to promote community growth and well-being
• [00:26:56] Replicating the holistic approach
• [00:31:01] How Darrell sees school evolving
• [00:34:47] The necessity of fighting for funding to sustain supportive educational initiatives and prevent teacher burnout and attrition

Resources

Marnetta Larrimer

Darrell Brown