What is social media really doing to kids — and why are even loving, careful parents losing children to online harms?

In this powerful episode of Screen Less Play More, Cynthia interviews the team behind the documentary "Your Attention Please," including filmmaker duo Sara Robin and Jack LeMay, along with parent advocate Kristin Bride, whose 16-year-old son Carson committed suicide after severe online cyberbullying.

Together, they expose how social media algorithms, addictive app design, anonymous messaging apps, cyberbullying, and AI-driven engagement systems are affecting children's lives and safety. Kristin explains how online bullying and harassment killed her son, through an anonymous app called YOLO, which was integrated into Snapchat. They discuss teen and child mental health, friendships, self-esteem, attention spans, and safety online.

This episode explores:

the hidden dangers of Snapchat and anonymous apps
how algorithms push harmful content to teens
the connection between social media and anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and suicide
why even "good parents" cannot fully protect kids from online harms
the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the fight for tech accountability
how Big Tech profits from attention and emotional manipulation
practical ways parents can reduce screen time and create healthier childhoods
the growing movement toward phone-free schools, offline clubs, and screen-free family life

You'll also hear hopeful ideas for reclaiming childhood through more independence, outdoor play, real-world friendships, and intentional family culture.

If you're worried about:

kids and phones
teen mental health
cyberbullying
screen addiction
social media safety
AI and children
online predators
digital parenting
raising kids in the digital age

…this episode is essential listening.

Learn more about the documentary "Your Attention Please" and upcoming screenings at Your Attention Please.

For more practical strategies on raising balanced, thriving kids with less screen time and more real-world play, visit Screen Less Play More and Cynthia's substack Screen Less Play More.

https://screenlessplaymorepodcast.substack.com/

Thanks for listening!