What is your opinion about kids and technology use? Are you worried about tech addiction in your children? Does your own tech use even give you pause?
We are so lucky today with all the access to information. However, we know that technology can be a double-edged sword. Today, we are talking to Kathy Van Benthuysen from Converlation. Kathy was a teacher of 4th graders for almost 30 years. Her experience with the children prompted her to help create solutions and ensure they reach every family. Listening to parents and kids, while regarding recommendations by the experts, it was clear that the solutions were only tips and tricks.
Using her background in instructional design and having an in-depth understanding of the mind of a 4th grader, Kathy led the evolution of Converlation from inception to present-day.
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Show Notes
Hey, hey friend! Welcome to Episode #57 of The Secrets of Supermom Show!
This episode is sponsored by The Supermom Society, the only membership of its kind that combines productivity training–so you can do more in less time–with parenting training–so you can confidently be the mom you dream to be. I want you to close your eyes and picture this:
- You start your month stress-free because you already planned out all the most important parts of your life
- Each week you plan out your perfect week knowing that you will stay consistent and accountable to YOU
- You create a life where you actually have more time to do the things you love
- You have personal productivity systems in place that make you a happier and more present mom
- Each month you learn new ways to uplevel your parenting in ways you never honestly thought possible
- And you are doing it all with a group of amazing women who totally have your back and totally want to see you succeed!
I believe that an intentional plan, productivity strategy, and a little parenting magic will change your life. I believe it so much that I created The Supermom Society with moms just like you in mind.
The Supermom Society is a private community for busy moms that want to do more in less time. Get strategies, community, clarity, and all the support you need to be a positive, present mom and a productive human in whatever life brings to the table. Each month you will walk away with a plan for your next month (and even next quarter and year), new time management and parenting skills, and all your questions answered from a group of moms who are ready to beat burnout and stay happy in the process.
I can’t wait to show you what it’s like to have more time, less stress, and a community to hold you up. Head to www.thesupermomsociety.com for all the details!
Ok, friend, what is your opinion about kids and technology use? Do your kids have phones, iPods, iPads, laptops, video game consoles, the list really goes on? Are you worried about tech addiction in your children? Do you have rules that you set up around tech use in your home? Does your own tech use even give you pause?
We are so lucky today with all the access to information. However, we know that technology can be a double-edged sword.
Today’s guest spent nearly 30 years as a 4th-grade teacher and saw firsthand the impacts of technology on the children she taught. Her experience with the issues they faced prompted her to help create solutions and ensure they reached every family.
Kathy Van Benthuysen is the Chief Product Officer of Converlation, a word they created that is defined as the exchange of thoughts, ideas, and feelings that build and strengthen relationships.
Using her background in instructional design and having an in-depth understanding of the mind of a 4th grader, especially on what engages them, Kathy led the evolution of Converlation from inception to present-day. Kathy conducted workshops and focus groups where solutions were repeatedly tested and refined based on feedback until the result was the engagement with kids via the activities in the program.
Before the interview, Kathy’s team actually sent me a few of the activities to try out with my kiddos so you will hear me talk about that today. And…if you go to their website you can try it out for free.
I am so excited to welcome Kathy Van Benthuysen to the show!
Kids and Technology
Today we discuss…
- The impact of technology use in children that Kathy has witnessed over 29 years of teaching 4th grade
- The instant gratification of information availability and the loss of some critical skills when relying on devices
- How we define “screens” and most common uses for boys vs. girls
- Technology impact on mental health including depression, anxiety, and suicidality
- Communication impacts with kids and technology including an inability to make simple phone calls, greet people and communicate effectively with others in person
- Physical impacts of tech use on body health
- The importance of live, true conversations in relationship building within families and friendships
- More about Converlation and Kathy’s team including the activity guide that helps to promote conversations between child and parent which will strengthen their relationship
- My experience with the Converlation activity guide and some of the things I learned with my 12-year-old daughter
- The importance of tech-free connection with your children
