The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast – Episode 1KHO 409: "Screens are Experience Killers" with Mike McCleod, GrowNOW ADHD

In Episode 1KHO 409 of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Urch engages in a compelling conversation with Mike McCleod from GrowNOW ADHD. Released on January 3, 2025, this episode delves into the pervasive issue of screen time among children and its detrimental effects on their development. Mike shares invaluable insights into how excessive screen use serves as "experience killers," undermining essential childhood experiences that foster executive functioning and overall well-being.

Introduction: The Critical Role of Outdoor Play

The episode opens with Ginny emphasizing the importance of granting children uninterrupted time outdoors. Mike passionately echoes this sentiment, stating, "We're saying that what is so important about kids having a childhood going outside the best thing for them? Play childhood. We got to give kids their childhoods back." [00:46] This foundational belief sets the stage for the discussion on the adverse impacts of screen time and the urgent need to reintegrate outdoor play into children's daily routines.

GrowNOW ADHD: Empowering Families and Schools

Mike McCleod provides an overview of GrowNOW ADHD's mission and services. "We provide executive functioning coaching and parent training to families all across the country and internationally," he explains [01:43]. The organization not only offers individual coaching but also works extensively with schools, training educators and administrators on the latest research in executive functioning. Additionally, GrowNOW ADHD runs specialized programs such as a college success initiative, a failure-to-launch program for young adults struggling with independence, and an executive functioning summer camp that combines social skills training with outdoor activities.

The Gap in Executive Functioning Education

A significant portion of the conversation highlights the lack of executive functioning training within the education system. Mike asserts, "executive functioning training is not a part to become a teacher" [03:48], pointing out that most teacher education programs offer minimal to no instruction on these critical skills. This oversight contributes to an education environment overly focused on standardized testing and measurable academic outcomes, sidelining the development of executive functions that are paramount for real-world success.

Screen Time: The Modern Adversary

Mike delves deep into the consequences of excessive screen time. He describes screens as "experience killers" because they monopolize children's attention and prevent them from engaging in activities that build necessary life skills. "Executive functions are the greatest predictor of success for human beings, period," Mike emphasizes [11:02], contrasting academic achievements with the need for strong executive functioning in navigating higher education and the workforce.

The discussion includes alarming anecdotes, such as young children being required to use iPads for basic math assessments. Ginny shares a poignant story where a five-year-old was given an iPad, leading to feelings of exclusion and dependency on digital devices. Mike highlights the inappropriateness of such practices, noting, "These are babies we're talking about... They haven't even lost a tooth" [08:48].

Impact on Behavioral Health and Academic Performance

The episode underscores how overexposure to screens exacerbates symptoms of ADHD and other behavioral issues. Mike explains that screens "increase inattentiveness, increase dysregulation," and "hardwire the brain towards instant gratification," making it challenging for children to engage in tasks that require sustained attention and self-control. This behavioral shift not only affects academic performance but also hinders the development of crucial interpersonal skills.

Solutions: Advocating for Outdoor Play and Reduced Screen Time

Transitioning from problems to solutions, Mike advocates for a balanced approach that prioritizes outdoor play and limits screen access. He draws parallels with Finland's education system, praising its emphasis on experiential learning and unstructured play, which contributes to higher academic and social success rates. "Human beings are social animals. They were made to be outdoors," Mike states [17:34], reinforcing the need for children to interact with their environment and peers beyond virtual interactions.

Practical strategies discussed include:

• Designated Screen Time: Implementing strict boundaries on screen usage, such as limiting homework-related screen time to one hour per day and removing devices thereafter.

• Community Engagement: Encouraging parents to utilize community resources and support groups to advocate for reduced screen time and increased outdoor activities.

• Experience-Based Camps: Promoting attendance at camps that focus on outdoor activities, social skills, and life skills without the presence of screens. Mike describes their summer camp model, where children engage in activities like escape rooms, scavenger hunts, and sports, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills without digital distractions.

Success Stories: Transformative Outcomes

Mike shares inspiring success stories from families who have reduced screen time, highlighting significant improvements in children's behavior and academic performance. "The child is naturally more regulated, more regulated to have 50, 50 conversations and use their perspective taking skills and social executive functioning skills," he notes [50:04]. These testimonials underscore the transformative power of outdoor play and the positive ripple effects of limiting screen exposure.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Parents and Educators

The episode concludes with a passionate call to action for parents and educators to prioritize outdoor play and limit screen time to foster healthier, more balanced childhoods. Mike emphasizes, "Nature and outdoor play is the answer to your problems," urging listeners to take proactive steps in integrating more outdoor activities into their children's lives. Ginny and Mike agree that reclaiming childhood from the clutches of digital addiction is essential for nurturing well-rounded, resilient individuals prepared to navigate an increasingly complex world.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike McCleod: "Executive functions are the greatest predictor of success for human beings, period." [11:02]
• Mike McCleod: "We're saying that what is so important about kids having a childhood going outside the best thing for them? Play childhood. We got to give kids their childhoods back." [00:46]
• Mike McCleod: "Human beings are social animals. They were made to be outdoors." [17:34]

This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the irreplaceable value of outdoor play in childhood development and the pressing need to address the overuse of screens in today's digital age.