Technology promises to make life better, boost productivity, connect us, and help us learn. But what does it do to childhood?  Where is the evidence that a screen-based childhood is best for kids? 

We all know that sitting still, staring at screens, watching who-knows-what is not good for healthy child development. And it's time for parents to rebel against this tsunami of technology. 

Arlene shares the story behind her new book, The Great Tech Reset: Reclaiming Real Life for Christian Families published with Summit Ministries (release date September 29). The most unusual thing about the book? For a limited time, it's free!  Just request your copy at techresetbook.com

Arlene will walk you through statistics on rising teen depression, anxiety, and declining literacy tied to screen use, then explain how her family avoided phones, social media, and video games through most of her kids' childhood. She addresses three common parenting fears — that kids need social media to make friends, that limiting tech will make kids hate their parents, and that it's too late to change course — and offers practical steps towards healthier tech use. Plus, she addresses the spiritual ramifications of too much tech.  What if our kids feared God more than they feared losing followers?

00:01 – A heart-to-heart about phones and tablets in the home

00:59 – Announcing The Great Tech Reset, a free print book, order at techresetbook.com

02:02 – The statistics: rising teen depression, anxiety, and declining literacy tied to screens

03:53 – How the book came about: stepping back from the Parents Rising Conference to write with Summit Ministries

08:49 – Lie #1: Kids need social media to make friends

12:41 – Lie #2: Limiting tech will make your kids hate you

18:59 – Lie #3: It's too late to change course

24:42 – A pop quiz for listeners: do you reach for your phone to relax?

27:15 – Closing scripture from Luke 12 and prayer for families

Order Arlene Pellicane's new book, The Great Tech Reset, now! TechResetBook.com

More Resources from Arlene Pellicane:

SUBSCRIBE to Arlene's newsletter "What I'm Learning This Week" and get the checklist, 7 Warning Signs of Screen Overuse.

Check out Arlene's BOOKS including Parents Rising, Screen Kids, and Making Marriage Easier.

Follow Arlene on Instagram and/or Facebook

Watch the podcast on Arlene's YouTube Channel

How did Arlene's kids adapt to not having phones, video games or social media? Watch the free video, Screen Kids: In Their Own Words.

Have a question for Arlene to address on the podcast? Want to invite Arlene to speak to your group? Email speaking@arlenepellicane.com

Not sure about a smartphone for your child? Check out the Gabb Wireless phone for kids and teens (use the promo code ARLENE)