Today, Melanie and Dr. Adriana Stacey discuss a recent article in the Journal of Pediatrics on independent play and how it relates to children’s mental well-being. This episode is full of great recommendations, encouragement, and a ton of research on why allowing your children the autonomy of independent play will make them happier, healthier, and more well-rounded adults.References & Links:Journal of Pediatrics article Dr. Stacey refers to throughout the episode: Decline in Independent Activity as a Cause of Decline in Children’s Mental Wellbeing: Summary of the EvidencePlay: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Dr. Stuart BrownThe Let Grow Project for Childhood Independence Episode 38: Helping Your Children Avoid Screen Addiction with Tracy Markle______________________________________________________Please subscribe, rate, and share this podcast to help spread the word. Stay Strong! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more!Our ScreenStrong Lifestyle Courses are also NOW AVAILABLE! Production Team: Host—Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor—Olivia Kernekin