Screen Time, School, and Parenting in the Digital Age with Emily Cherkin and Kristen McNeely

Robyn sits down with Emily Cherkin and Kristen McNeely to talk about parenting, education, and raising kids in a world shaped by technology.

In this episode, I’m joined by Emily Cherkin, widely known as the Screen Time Consultant, along with returning guest Kristen McNeely, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, for a conversation about technology, parenting, and the growing role of screens in our kids’ lives. Emily shares how she went from being a classroom teacher to becoming an advocate for more intentional technology use, especially as EdTech became more deeply embedded in schools and everyday family life.

We talk about the complicated relationship between parents, schools, and technology. From online grading portals and student privacy to digital literacy and the pressure parents feel to constantly monitor everything, this conversation explores how difficult it can be to navigate parenting in the digital age. We also discuss the impact technology can have on child development, anxiety, attention, and emotional well-being, especially for kids who are already more sensitive or vulnerable.

One thing I really appreciated about this conversation is that it stayed rooted in curiosity rather than judgment. We talked honestly about the challenges families and educators face, while also recognizing that most people are trying to do their best in a rapidly changing world. Emily and Kristen both bring thoughtful perspectives about building trust between parents, schools, and kids, and helping children develop healthier relationships with technology over time.

We also explore the importance of allowing kids to make mistakes, reducing pressure around achievement, and approaching parenting decisions with more intentionality and less fear. By the end of this episode, I hope parents walk away feeling less overwhelmed and more empowered to make thoughtful choices that align with their family’s values.

Shared Resources:

• Kristen McNeely’s Website
• Follow Kristen on Instagram @childhood.empowered
• Emily Cherkin’s Website and Substack
• Follow Emily on Instagram @thescreentimeconsultant
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources