Thomas Kersting has returned!!! . In this episode we talk about profound impact of technology on the mental health of today's youth. Together, we unravel the intricate web of challenges posed by our digitally dominated world and explore actionable insights to safeguard the well-being of our youth. From the alarming surge in anxiety coinciding with the mainstream adoption of smartphones to the profound impact of technology on family dynamics, this episode delves into the heart of the matter. Thomas shares his experiences as a high school counselor, revealing the stark changes in student behavior since the advent and widespread adoption of smartphones around the year 2012. As the conversation unfolds, discover the significance of play in a child's natural habitat, the hidden perils of constant screen exposure, and the powerful role of family rhythms in shaping a child's mental health. Explore practical strategies for managing technology with teens and tweens, the transformative effects of screen-free summer camps, and the crucial importance of resisting social conformity as parents. In a society fixated on external validation, Ginny and Thomas challenge listeners to reconsider the impact of screens on identity, emphasizing the value of genuine play and family connections. From the bedroom ban on phones to the undeniable link between screens and school dynamics, this episode serves as a wake-up call to reclaim childhood in the face of technological intrusion. Join the conversation and gain valuable insights into raising healthy teenagers in a world dominated by screens. This episode is a call to action for parents and caregivers navigating the intricate balance between the digital realm and the well-being of the next generation. ** Learn more about Thomas here >> https://www.tomkersting.com/ Purchase your copy of Raising Healthy Teenagers here >> https://amzn.to/48DfyjH ** Download your free 1000 Hours Outside tracker here >> https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/trackers Find everything you need to kick off your 1000 Hours Outside Journey here >> https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/blog/allthethings Order of copy of Ginny's newest book, Until the Streetlights Come On here >> https://amzn.to/3RXjBlN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices