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In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Candice Odgers about kids, social media, and what the research really says about screens and youth mental health.
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can set healthy limits around phone use without reacting out of fear, why screens are often part of a much bigger picture, and how families can focus on the core drivers of kids’ well-being — including sleep, school, friendships, family connection, offline activities, and caregiver mental health. He also explains how to respond when kids see something upsetting online, how to manage parent anxiety around tech headlines, and how to model healthier screen habits at home.
This episode offers practical guidance for helping kids use technology more intentionally, while keeping the focus on connection, communication, and the everyday habits that help children thrive.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
- How to tell the difference between healthy phone limits and fear-based reactions
- Why screens should be considered in the context of a child’s whole life
- What to focus on first when you’re worried about a child’s mental health
- How to respond when kids see something upsetting online
- Why parents should avoid passing tech anxiety on to kids
- Why caregiver mental health is a major driver of child well-being
- How to approach online risk when a child is already struggling offline
Further Reading
How to Set Limits on Screen Time
How to Set Limits on Screen Time
Creators and Guests
Host
Dave Anderson
Dave Anderson, PhD, is the Vice-President of Public Engagement and Education and a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. Dr. Anderson focuses on the expansion of our awareness-building and prevention programs while also leading initiatives that build the Child Mind Institute brand, foster strategic partnerships, and forge new relationships with policy makers and youth mental health leaders.
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Producer
Andrew Dearling
Andrew Dearling is the Digital Director at the Child Mind Institute, where he leads strategy and execution across web, email, social media, and digital campaigns. He focuses on using digital tools to connect more families with mental health resources, expand the organization’s reach, and drive measurable impact. Andrew combines deep expertise in content, platforms, and performance marketing with a clear understanding of how to reach people where they are, and move them to take action.
Producer
Chad Garber
Chad Garber, a seasoned Creative Producer with over 15 years of experience, shapes branded video, digital, and experiential content for Fortune 100 companies, agencies, and in-house teams to Child Mind Institute. Known for building high-performing creative operations, he led pro-bono productions to multimillion-dollar campaigns for brands like Verizon, Microsoft, New Balance, Budweiser, and FedEx. His sharp storytelling, deep production expertise, and collaborative leadership move ideas from concept to screen with impact.
What is Thriving Kids?
Parenting can feel overwhelming when kids struggle with anxiety, behavior, school, or big emotions. Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health.
Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode focuses on a common parenting challenge — from tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies grounded in science.
You’ll hear direct, expert guidance from clinicians who work with kids and families every day.
New episodes every week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.