Episode 003 – Reclaiming Childhood: Combating the Devastating Effects of Screens & Social Media on Children
Elizabeth and John Batton join Travis Patterson to discuss the impact of early social media exposure on children and share practical strategies for parents to protect their kids' mental health and development in the digital age.
Episode Summary:
In this important episode of Driving Change, Travis Patterson sits down with Elizabeth and John Batton, founders of socialmediacanwait.org and advocates for delaying social media access for children. Drawing from their experience raising three teenagers, the Batons share personal insights about the devastating impact of early social media exposure on young people's mental health and development. From forming coalitions with other families to implementing practical strategies for managing screen time, this episode equips parents with actionable steps to protect their children in an increasingly digital world. The conversation explores why standard phone restrictions aren't enough, the surprising truth about school-issued devices, and how parents can band together to create meaningful change in their communities.
MENTIONED THIS WEEK
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health
Sample Family Tech Agreement (This is just an example—not the exact agreement the Battons use)
