In this episode, I’m joined by Will Mauer, founder of the Children's Media Research and Reform Lab and a TEDx speaker.
We talk about something almost every parent wrestles with: screens.
Will explains how many children’s shows aren’t designed for development — they’re engineered for engagement. Fast cuts. Flashy visuals. Autoplay. Stacked episodes. All carefully structured to trigger dopamine hits and keep young viewers watching.
For babies and toddlers — especially under two — that matters.
We unpack:
What “junk food media” actually means
Why rapid pacing and autoplay affect the developing brain
How addictive viewing patterns form
The difference between quality and quantity
Why co-viewing changes everything
What to choose when you do need to use a screen
This isn’t a shame-fest. It’s clarity.
If screens are part of your life (and let’s be honest, for most of us they are), this episode will help you make steadier, more intentional choices — and be kinder to yourself in the process.
Because protecting early development doesn’t require perfection. It requires awareness.
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