Trees are crucial to the planet.

Research continues to show that children, starting with infants, who hear a second language significantly increase the development their problem-solving skills, memory, critical thinking and listening skills. They can switch from one language to another to understand words, questions, and instructions. Infants have no problem hearing two languages and the older they get the easier it is for them to understand two or more languages. It is not confusing for them. (We all should have started early!)

I have been following Tristan Harris’ work with the Center for Humane Technology for over two years.  His ethical response to how technology social – media – is influencing society is worth giving your serious attention. It can totally take over the time of family members, especially with children.  It’s sneaky.

Many health organizations connected to universities, hospitals, pediatricians, health research, even the World Health Organization (WHO) are speaking out and being pro-active in challenging parents to help their children limit screen time.  There are so many clinics for anxieties, behavioral challenges, low self-esteem because of pressures put upon kids to watch screens, to look perfect when posting on social media, etc.  There will be more and more inventions and work-related activities on screens in the near future.

Yes, we know many kids are addicted (as are many adults) to screens as reported in The Big Disconnect (Catherine Steiner-Adair) and in other research.  Yes, screen time is sedentary.  Yes, less is best and parents need to be setting limits and attempting to monitor what’s being watched and for how long.  It’s a struggle; not always easy to win.