Episodes

  • Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends: Highlights, Insights and a Chance to Win a Fantastic Giveaway from Season 1

    Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends: Highlights, Insights and a Chance to Win a Fantastic Giveaway from Season 1
    Aug 21 2024

    In this special bonus episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends,' host Sue Atkins, along with Angeline Corvaglia and Tara Jones, revisit key moments from season one.

    The episode covers essential topics such as screen time management with Dr Beth Mosley, the importance of play with Dr Amanda Gummer, digital wellbeing with Lucy Smith, and the impact of AI on young people with Bill Schmarzo.

    They also discuss practical tips for maintaining balance in tech use and announce a giveaway of Dr Beth Mosley's book, 'Happy Families: How to Protect and Support Your Child's Mental Health.'

    The episode aims to provide parents with valuable tips and insights to support their children's mental health and navigate the complexities of the digital age.


    How to Enter the Giveaway to win Beth’s fantastic book:
    1. Follow & like our podcast.
    2. Share this bonus episode on your social media.
    3. Tag us and use the hashtag #DigitalJungleBonus.

    Happy Families: How to Protect and Support Your Child's Mental Health by Dr Beth Mosley: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/dr-beth-mosley-mbe/happy-families/9781035017454

    Find out about the Screen Free Summer Change https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/screen-free-summer-change/

    And remember to visit https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/ for all the episodes and lots more.

    00:00 Introduction and Giveaway Announcement
    01:32 Screen Time Management with Dr Beth Mosley
    02:53 Understanding the Dopamine Crash
    05:20 Creating Family Media Plans
    10:02 The Importance of Play with Dr. Amanda Gummer
    23:22 Digital Wellbeing and Minimalism with Lucy Smith
    34:30 The Pull of Devices on Young Minds
    35:03 Jonathan Haidt's Insights on Teenage Mental Health
    35:30 Experience Blockers in Everyday Life
    37:14 The Importance of Free Play and Independence
    38:43 Challenges of Outdoor Activities for Kids
    39:13 Conflicting Research on Smartphones and Mental Well-being
    43:18 Encouraging Real-World Interactions
    45:50 Relax Kids: Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
    54:31 Bill Schmartzo on AI and Education
    01:06:25 Final Thoughts and Giveaway Announcement
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Keeping Children with SEND from Getting Lost in the Digital Jungle

    Keeping Children with SEND from Getting Lost in the Digital Jungle
    Aug 7 2024
    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle,' Sue Atkins is joined by Angeline Corvaglia and Tara Jones as they delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technology for children with additional or special needs. They discuss the impact of social media on mental health, particularly for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), offering tips on managing screen time and fostering positive online interactions. The episode features insights from the Internet Matters report and includes practical advice on parental controls and establishing clear boundaries. Special guest Dr Beth Moseley, MBE, provides expert commentary on child and adolescent mental health in the digital age, while emphasising the importance of balanced tech use, parental involvement, and open communication. Links to articles and websites mentioned: https://www.internetmatters.org/connecting-safely-online/ Internet Matters The Life Online for Children with SEND report https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsjungle/ https://www.instagram.com/protectyoungeyes/?hl=en https://sueatkinsparentingcoach.com/2021/12/me-time-could-be-the-best-hours-you-give-not-only-yourself-but-also-your-children/ https://sueatkinsparentingcoach.com/2023/02/special-needs-is-like-an-umbrella-sheltering-and-hiding-a-huge-collection-of-diagnoses-underneath/ https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/specialfunctional-needs https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/screen-free-summer-change/ Info about Dr Beth Mosley and links: Dr Beth Mosley MBE is a distinguished consultant clinical psychologist who specialises in children’s mental health. She has worked in the NHS for over twenty years, providing specialist mental health support and developing innovative mental health provisions in schools. Dr Beth’s contribution to children’s mental health during the pandemic was recognised in the 2022 New Year’s Honours List with an MBE. She regularly speaks on BBC and ITV local news as well as BBC radio stations about young people’s mental health and was named one of 2022’s Suffolk 100 influential leaders. Dr Beth is the author of Happy Families: How to Protect and Support Your Child’s Mental Health, published throughout the world. Dr Beth’s mission revolves around bridging the gap between psychological theory and practical application – in the context of what is happening today for young people – to ensure everyone has access to this information in a way that feels relatable and relevant to them. https://www.drbethmosley.com/ https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/dr-beth-mosley-mbe/happy-families/9781035017454 My book: https://amzn.eu/d/0igdrALr Family Tech Planners https://www.commonsensemedia.org/family-tech-planners For Education: https://www.commonsense.org/education/digital-citizenship/curriculum X @‌drbethmosley Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drbethmosley?igsh=MW8xMjA0M3B0eWFyaA == Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@drbethmosley?_t=8nIlOUmNx0i&_r=1 Threads @‌drbethmosley Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beth.mosley.378 Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-mosley-813b2912b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app The episode concludes with listener questions and tips for creating a tech-free summer. 00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle 00:46 Understanding the Needs of Children with SEND 03:16 Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 04:43 Tips for Managing Screen Time 09:25 Fostering Positive Online Interactions 12:19 Supportive Online Communities 16:14 Balancing Self-Care for Parents 18:00 Navigating ADHD and Technology 20:42 Interview with Dr. Beth Moseley 41:57 Awkward Conversations and Technology 43:20 Parenting in the Digital Age 44:26 The Importance of Boundaries 45:20 Parental Controls and Challenges 50:02 Understanding the Dopamine Crash 54:01 Creating Family Digital Rules 57:02 Beth's Books and Resources 01:04:11 Listener Questions and Tips 01:12:15 Screen-Free Summer Challenge 01:15:41 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • Navigating the AI Digital Jungle

    Navigating the AI Digital Jungle
    Jul 31 2024

    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends,' host Sue Atkins is joined by Angeline Corvaglia, creator of Data Girl, and EdTech consultant Tara Jones. They dive into the crucial topic of understanding AI and its impact on families and society.

    ‌

    Special guest Bill Schmarzo, the Dean of Big Data, provides insights into AI's role in education, safety, and everyday life. The discussion covers the basics of AI, its applications, the importance of critical thinking, and how parents can educate themselves and their children about AI.

    ‌

    Resources for parents, practical tips, and listener questions are also addressed, making this episode a comprehensive guide to navigating AI in the digital age.

    Links and further information:

    Ayla AI Girl videos that are focused on AI awareness for children and youth:

    Ayla AI Girl

    Game “I Spy AI”

    • video:

    I Spy AI: AI made easy with Ayla AI Girl

    • article: I Spy AI: More Than Just a Game - Data Girl and Friends (data-girl-and-friends.com)

    Articles to support parents when teaching their children about AI: Expert Articles on Digital Literacy and Online Safety - Data Girl and Friends (data-girl-and-friends.com)

    Articles for adults on what AI can and can’t do: Blog (corvaglia.me)

    Information about AI workshops for parents: Courses & Workshops UI (corvaglia.me)

    About our guest –

    Bill Schmarzo

    Bill is Customer Data & AI Innovation Strategist, Dell Technologies. Bill works with Dell’s strategic customers helping them navigate their AI journey.

    He has held positions as Chief Innovation Officer at Hitachi Vantara, CTO of EMC’s Big Data Consulting Practice, and VP of Advertiser Analytics at Yahoo!

    He has authored 6 books and is a University of San Francisco School of Management Executive Fellow, Honorary Professor at the National University of Ireland-Galway, and AI Research Fellow at Coe College.

    Bill holds an MBA from University of Iowa and a Bachelor of Science from Coe College.

    Find him here https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmarzo/

    ‌

    00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle

    00:52 Understanding AI and Its Impact

    02:41 Introducing Bill Schmarzo: The Dean of Big Data

    04:19 Explaining AI in Simple Terms

    06:11 The Impact of AI on Children

    07:44 Parental Awareness and Critical Thinking

    10:01 Empowering Parents with Resources

    15:55 The Role of AI in Society and Community

    23:04 AI and Human Creativity

    27:12 Preparing Children for AI Challenges

    28:29 The Role of Parents in Digital Education

    30:03 The Impact of AI on Mental Health

    31:46 Combating Bullying in the Digital Age

    34:41 Nurturing Curiosity and Imagination

    36:31 Collaborative Efforts in AI Education

    41:52 Practical Tips for Parents

    45:20 Listener Questions and Final Thoughts
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    54 mins
  • Toddlers and Tech

    Toddlers and Tech
    Jul 24 2024
    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle', Sue Atkins, Angeline Corvaglia, and Tara Jones dive into the complex world of young children and technology. The discussion focuses on managing screen time for toddlers, its benefits, and potential drawbacks. They provide practical tips for parents, including setting limits, recommending educational apps, and emphasising the importance of unstructured play. The episode also explores the impact of excessive screen time on sleep, social skills, and language development. And Sue interviews Dr Amanda Gummer, a research psychologist specialising in child development who shares her insights on balancing screen time with play for holistic child development. The episode concludes with listener questions and valuable advice on maintaining healthy tech habits and navigating parenting challenges in the digital age. For more tips on balancing play and screen time, check out The Good Play Guide and Fundamentally Children for advice and reviews on toys, games, and educational products. Also, explore Data Girl and Friends for educational content on online safety and AI literacy. ‌ More on our guest: Dr Amanda Gummer is a renowned research psychologist and a leading expert on children's play, parenting, and child development. As CEO of Fundamentally Children and Dr Gummer's Good Play Guide, Amanda drives impactful research and consultancy. She chairs the Association of Play Industries, serves as a NED for Families in Focus CIC and advises mission-led startups. With over 20 years of experience and a PhD in neuropsychology, Amanda authored the acclaimed book 'Play' and developed the STEAM toy accreditation framework for the Toy Association. A prominent media figure, Amanda actively contributes to research and policy, presenting internationally, including at the European Parliament. ‌www.GoodPlayGuide.com www.FUNdamentallyChildren.com ‌Social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandagummer and https://www.linkedin.com/company/fundamentallychildrenandgoodplayguide Facebook: @goodplayguide  Instagram: @goodplayguide Twitter: @goodplayguide @dramandagummer ‌ Other links mentioned in the show: Some Parents With Kids Too Glued to Screens Think They’ve Found an Answer. Are They Right? ‌Sue was on LBC talking to Ben Kentish about the news that the Scouts waiting list tops 100,000 as parents try to help lockdown children develop self-esteem Demand for membership has skyrocketed, with the organisation urging more volunteers to sign up to become Scout leaders https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/07/02/scouts-waiting-list-lockdown-confidence/ The Irish Independent about a study that found children given digital devices when they’re having tantrums don’t learn to regulate emotions. Children given digital devices when they’re having tantrums don’t learn to regulate emotions, study finds The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides specific guidelines and advice for managing toddlers' screen time to ensure healthy development. Screen Time and Children . 00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle 00:49 Toddlers and Tech: Benefits and Drawbacks 02:08 Impact of the Pandemic on Toddler Development 02:47 The Importance of Play in Child Development 03:34 Self-Regulation and Screen Time 05:09 Concerns Around Sleep and Screen Time 06:48 Social Skills and Technology 09:46 Language Development and Screen Time 10:55 Attention and Concentration Issues 15:07 Inappropriate Content and Screen Time 22:52 Summer Screen-Free Challenge 26:09 Interview with Dr. Amanda Gummer 33:31 The Role of Apps for Children with Additional Needs 34:07 Addressing Gaming Addiction in Children 35:45 Technology and Toddlers: A Balanced Approach 38:34 The Importance of Play in Early Childhood 39:57 Resources and Websites for Parents 46:03 Listener Questions: Managing Screen Time 54:24 Quick Tips for Digital Parenting 55:33 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects
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    1 hr
  • Digital Dangers: Boys, Gaming, and the Allure of Online Porn

    Digital Dangers: Boys, Gaming, and the Allure of Online Porn
    Jul 17 2024

    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle', Sue Atkins is joined by Angeline Corvaglia, the creator of Data Girl and Friends, and Favill Gill, Education Manager for YGAM.

    Sue and Angeline discuss the risks and prevalence of online pornography, especially for young boys.

    Favill then shares her valuable insight as Education Manager for YGAM on key topics include the allure of gaming with potentially harmful elements like loot boxes, the intersection of gaming and gambling, and the psychological impact of in-game purchases.

    The episode also covers strategies for parents to protect their children from the dangers of online porn, including the appropriate use of parental controls and the importance of open communication.

    Practical tips and resources are shared, emphasising the need for proactive engagement and education to safeguard children's well-being in the digital world.

    Info about Y Gam and Favill

    www.ygam.org

    Ygam Facebook

    Ygam (@ygamuk) on X

    Instagram (@ygamuk)

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/favill-gill-45aa5335/

    Tips on how to talk about porn to children

    Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, send in your photos of your family change or send in your questions to info@navigatingthedigitaljungle.com

    Episode Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

    00:52 Understanding Digital Dangers: Gaming and Online Porn

    01:53 The Evolution and Impact of Gaming

    04:03 Gaming and Gambling: The Blurred Lines

    07:56 The Psychological Effects of In-Game Purchases

    09:16 The Role of AI in Gaming Addiction

    10:26 Parental Guidance and Control

    13:31 Recognizing and Addressing Problematic Gaming Behaviour

    19:29 Resources and Support for Parents

    25:48 The Allure of Online Pornography

    27:24 Introduction to the Survey on Pornography

    27:43 Impact of Pornography on Schools and Teachers

    29:15 Parental Strategies to Protect Children

    30:32 Challenges with Current Digital Protections

    34:58 The Role of AI in Modern Pornography

    37:04 Effective Communication with Children

    39:29 Listener Questions and Practical Advice

    43:50 Final Thoughts and Resources
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    48 mins
  • Digital Defenders: Standing Tall Against Cyberbullies.

    Digital Defenders: Standing Tall Against Cyberbullies.
    Jul 10 2024
    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle', we delve into cyberbullying awareness and prevention. The discussion highlights staggering statistics from the U.S. National Crime Prevention Council and explores the potential of AI in combating cyberbullying. Sue, Tara and Angeline provide practical advice for parents, from understanding social media settings to fostering empathy and respectful online behaviour in children. The episode also emphasises the importance of supporting victims, educating kids on digital safety, and engaging with available resources. Lastly, it features collaborative efforts with charities like Ditch the Label to combat online harassment. Links and resources mentioned in the episode: US surgeon general calls for cigarette-style warnings on social media platforms Cyberbullying: One in six teenagers report harassment online like my ‘Pause to Ponder’ moment for parents Practical Tips on How to RESPOND Rather Than REACT. My Pause Button Technique Practical Tips on How to RESPOND Rather Than REACT. My Pause Button Technique - Sue Atkins The Parenting Coach What is Bullying and How It Differs in Boys and Girls What is Bullying and How It Differs in Boys and Girls - Sue Atkins The Parenting Coach Further help: This one is for parents: Sue Atkins and Ditch the Label: 'Can Parents Stop Bullying?' The Ultimate guide to dealing with the School What To Do if the School isn’t Cooperating. Websites like StopBullying.gov, Cyberbullying.org, and Common Sense Media Anti Bullying Alliance offer valuable information and resources for parents, educators, and children. These sites provide practical advice, educational materials, and tools for reporting and dealing with cyberbullying. Many organisations also offer workshops and training sessions on digital safety and cyberbullying prevention. The websites below have lots of information and advice for anyone who has experienced bullying. The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) maintains a website for children and young people, and parents and carers about staying safe online: Think U Know Childline: information about bullying Kidscape: information for young people This is where ReThink™, also comes in so talk and teach your kids about the importance of not being a bystander and also get them into the habit of ‘pausing to ponder’ before posting. It can stop victims suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and feeling suicidal. Research shows that when adolescents are alerted to "ReThink" their decision, they change their minds 93% of the time. Using ReThink™ ‌ ReThink - Before the Damage is Done ‌ Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, send in your photos of your family change or send in your questions to info@navigatingthedigitaljungle.com ‌ Episode chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Digital Jungle 00:03 Understanding Cyberbullying 00:52 The Role of AI in Combating Cyberbullying 01:23 Victim Responsibility and Intervention 01:40 Digital Defenders and Automated Harassment 02:17 Disturbing Trends and the Need for Digital Defenders 02:33 Supporting and Protecting Children 03:26 Effective Strategies Against Cyberbullying 03:54 Parental Guidance and Social Media Settings 04:18 Staying Engaged and Informed 04:48 Final Thoughts and Resources 05:34 Conclusion and Farewell
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    42 mins
  • Turn Off – Tune In The Benefits of a Digital Detox

    Turn Off – Tune In The Benefits of a Digital Detox
    Jul 3 2024
    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle,' Sue Atkins, Tara Jones, and Angeline Corvaglia discuss strategies for healthier phone use, online safety for children, and the benefits of digital detox. They share practical advice for parents on managing their own screen time, setting realistic technology boundaries, and encouraging family activities that don't involve screens. The episode also explores the importance of reflection on phone use, tackling problematic screen habits, and maintaining healthy engagement with technology. The show concludes with listener questions about digital detox and offers simple, effective tips for achieving a balanced digital lifestyle. Useful links https://sueatkinsparentingcoach.com/2024/05/is-it-time-to-put-your-phone-in-jail/ Daily Media Use Among Children and Teens Up Dramatically From Five Years Ago | KFF Recommended Data Girl and Friends episodes: Melissa and the Magical Book of Balance: Melissa and the Magical Book of Balance For more information about Angeline Corvaglia’s AI for non-tech experts: Courses & Workshops UI corvaglia.me About World Digital Detox Day Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, send in your photos of your family change or send in your questions to info@navigatingthedigitaljungle.com 00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle 01:07 Tara Jones on Phone Use in Schools 04:16 Angeline Corvaglia on AI and Online Safety 05:28 Exploring the Benefits of a Digital Detox 06:36 Practical Steps for Reducing Screen Time 09:42 Balancing Technology and Outdoor Activities 17:59 Parental Reflections on Phone Use 22:13 The Impact of a Five-Day Digital Detox 22:53 Parental Screen Time Awareness 24:02 Strategies for Reducing Screen Time 25:12 Family Change Segment: Screen-Free Hour 27:44 Listener Questions on Digital Detox 31:12 Weekly Quick Tips for Digital Detox 34:50 World Digital Detox Day: An Overview 35:51 Interview with Dr. Rekha Chowdhury 41:17 Final Thoughts and Listener Feedback
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    45 mins
  • Behind the Selfie, Girls, Social Media, and Self-Esteem

    Behind the Selfie, Girls, Social Media, and Self-Esteem
    Jun 26 2024
    In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle', Sue Atkins is joined by Angeline Corvaglia, creator of Data Girl and Friends, to explore the impact of social media on girls' body image and self-esteem. Drawing on insights from social psychologist Jonathan Haidt's book 'The Anxious Generation', they discuss the mental health challenges young girls face due to the unrealistic standards presented on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. They emphasise the importance of promoting media literacy, encouraging offline activities, and fostering open conversations within families. Angeline shares her personal experiences and insights into how AI and algorithms exacerbate these issues while offering practical tips for parents to support their children. The episode concludes with a call to action for World Digital Detox Day and a segment on family change focused on promoting positive role models and critical evaluation of online content. The book mentioned https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/book Some resources relating to the topics discussed https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/anorexia.html Anorexia | What To Do If You Think You Have Anorexia Support for Carers - Beat In England, young people under the age of 18 can refer themselves to community eating disorder services. But be aware that some services have suspended self-referral due to high demand. Services A to Z - NHS Speak to your GP. They aren’t experts in anorexia so won’t be able to treat you themselves, but they can help you get the right treatment and support. They’ll refer you to a specialist eating disorder service, a psychiatrist, or another expert who can help. If you don’t get a referral to a specialist service, it’s okay to ask for one. How To Speak To Your GP About Your Mental Health Treatment and support for eating disorders Treatment and support for eating problems Below are organisations that provide connections to treatment options as well as more information about eating disorders around the world Resources Mental health support for girls affected by social media Mental health support for girls affected by social media How the Media Impacts Girls' Mental Health How the Media Impacts Girls' Mental Health Recommended Data Girl and Friends videos: The Power of Inner Light: https://vimeo.com/932131140 Rising Above: Silencing the Negativity: Rising Above: Silencing the Negativity The Great Online Perfection Illusion: Rising Above: Silencing the Negativity For more information about Angeline Corvaglia’s workshops about AI for non-tech experts: Courses & Workshops UI (corvaglia.me) Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, send in your photos of your family change or send in your questions to info@navigatingthedigitaljungle.com
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    35 mins