Few topics will spark debate among parents more readily than screen time. It’s so controversial! Screens are everywhere. And avoiding them can feel like the domain of super-human parents. Learn some tips to cut down on screens from Dr. Screen-Free Mom: Meghan Owenz. She runs a website, Screen-Free Parenting, with over 27,000 active participants. She is also an Assistant Teaching Professor at Penn State University.   Key Takeaways: [1:46] What does screen-free look like for Meghan’s family? [2:24] Meghan shares alternatives for keeping kids engaged and busy. [3:23] Use her S.P.O.I.L. system to cut down on screen time. [4:38] How can independent play be achieved so parents can have a break too? [6:37] Rotate favorite toys in and out of special baskets so that they feel fresh.  [8:18] Does screen-free mean more stuff? There are ways around it: Something as simple as a scarf can offer miles of road-trip diversion. [9:37] What does the science tell us about the effects of screen time on kids?  [11:17] Meghan shares research findings on attention. [12:13] Meghan talks about how language is impacted by screens. [14:00] What about connecting with grandparents or friends over Zoom or FaceTime?  [16:13] How does Meghan help parents wean their children from screens? [18:08] What does becoming screen-free look like? [19:38] How can a parent enforce a screen-free approach? She provides advice around changing rules with a toddler, as well as older children. [22:45] Jessica provides a recap of an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Meghan Owenz.   Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Lovevery.com Screen-Free Parenting