In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we dive into the importance of routines for children with ADHD. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll learn:

The Power of Routines:
Routines may seem boring, but they are incredibly effective in creating calm and reducing stress for both parents and children.

The Science Behind Routines:
Predictability in routines helps reduce anxiety and improve behaviour by setting clear expectations.

Implementing Effective Routines:

• Start Small: Focus on one routine at a time to avoid overwhelming your child.

• Visual Timetables: Use visual aids to help children remember and follow routines, especially for those with executive functioning challenges.

• Involving Your Child: Engage your child in creating the routine to give them a sense of ownership and make the process smoother.

• Transition Strategies: Introduce changes gradually and use social stories or apps to illustrate the benefits of routines.

Join us as we explore how to make routines work for your family—and remember, sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.

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In this insightful and reflective episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we dive deep into Jonathan Haidt’s provocative and widely discussed book, The Anxious Generation. Host [Your Name], a psychologist and parent, shares a heartfelt and honest review of the book, exploring its key arguments, research foundations, and real-world implications for today’s families—especially those raising neurodivergent children.

From initial panic to practical reflection, [Your Name] discusses how Haidt’s core message—that smartphones and social media have fundamentally reshaped childhood—resonated personally and professionally. You’ll hear about the dramatic shift in children’s lives around 2010, as play-based, outdoor experiences gave way to screen-dominated, indoor ones, and how this shift has coincided with alarming rises in anxiety, depression, and social disconnection—especially among girls.

This episode covers:

• What Haidt gets right: the importance of unstructured play, the dangers of constant connectivity, the science behind sleep and screen use, and the growing mental health challenges in young people.

• Where the book may fall short: overemphasis on screens as the sole cause of rising anxiety, lack of attention to other societal pressures, and missing nuance for neurodivergent kids.

• How these insights apply specifically to ADHD and autistic children, who may rely more heavily on screens for connection, regulation, and learning.

• Practical tools and mindset shifts for parents, including collaborative screen boundaries, digital nutrition vs. restriction, and modeling healthy tech habits.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the screen-time battle, curious about how to raise your kids in a digital age, or wondering how to support neurodivergent children in navigating online life, this episode offers thoughtful perspective, personal anecdotes, and evidence-informed guidance.

Parent Like a Psychologist is about meeting parents where they are, with empathy, clarity, and strategies that work in the real world—not just the ideal one. So if you’ve ever threatened to bring back the Nokia just to keep your sanity (guilty!), this episode is for you.

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In this insightful and reassuring episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, we dive deep into the nuanced relationship between screens, social skills, and our children's development. Leanne candidly shares a funny behind-the-scenes moment (spoiler: technical difficulties!) before expertly guiding parents through the positives and potential pitfalls of screen use in children's social lives. While screens often get a bad reputation, this episode highlights how technology can actually enhance social connection—especially for neurodivergent children—through shared interests, gaming, and online communities.

Leanne discusses key research findings, including the "double empathy problem," and explains why it’s crucial to focus on the quality of online interactions rather than simply limiting screen time. Listeners will learn practical tips for encouraging meaningful online social experiences, spotting early warning signs of screen-related anxiety or depression, and maintaining a healthy balance between virtual and in-person connections.

Referencing expert insights from The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, Leanne empowers parents to become "smart guides" in their children's digital worlds. Packed with compassion, humour, and evidence-based advice, this episode offers a balanced and thoughtful perspective on raising socially connected children in a digital age.

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Struggling with screen time battles? You’re not alone.

In this episode, psychologist Leanne Tran tackles the modern parenting dilemma: how to set screen limits that stick—without meltdowns or guilt. Discover why neurodivergent children (ADHD, autism) need tailored strategies, how to craft a family media plan everyone follows (yes, even you!), and science-backed hacks to ease transitions (goodbye, tantrums!). Learn why screens aren’t the enemy—just a tool to balance—and get actionable tips for mindful usage, age-appropriate rules, and reclaiming calm.

Perfect for: Parents drowning in digital chaos, craving practical fixes for TikTok obsession, Fortnite marathons, or bedtime scroll battles.

Key Takeaways:

• Why "one-size-fits-all" screen rules fail (and what works instead).

• How to involve children in boundary-setting (spoiler: fewer power struggles!).

• The magic of visual timers and "boring" alternatives that actually work.

👉 Follow/Subscribe for more strategies to parent like a pro—not a referee.

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What is really going on in your child’s brain when they can’t seem to put the screen down? Could it be more than just a habit—perhaps even a neurological craving? In this episode, recorded from a beach holiday, Leanne Tran explores the concept of digital dopamine and what makes screen time so compelling, especially for developing brains. Why are children, particularly those with ADHD, more susceptible to screen attachment, and what does neuroscience tell us about how dopamine reinforces these patterns?

Why do children often resist stopping screen use—even with advance notice? Could the flood of stimulation from games like Minecraft or Fortnite be rewiring their brains to expect constant novelty? What makes transitions from screen to real life so difficult, and how can we support our children through that shift? Leanne explains how to build in 'buffer time' and why regulating emotions first makes all the difference when winding down from digital engagement.

Are there subtle signs that your child might have an unhealthy attachment to screens? What emotional and behavioural cues should you look for, such as irritability, withdrawal from family life, or sneaky screen use? And when screen time habits don’t align with your family boundaries—such as phones appearing at dinner—how can you step in calmly and effectively to reset the balance?

What practical steps can help your family regain control of digital habits? Is a cold-turkey approach right for you, or would a gradual reduction work better? How can parents model better phone use themselves, and what kinds of offline activities can ease the transition? Leanne wraps up with empowering tips to help you enter the next school term with intention and confidence—without guilt, shame, or unrealistic expectations.

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The Power of Community

What makes a strong community, and why is it essential for personal and collective well-being? How do the connections we form shape our resilience and provide emotional support? In this discussion, we explore the importance of belonging and the role communities play in fostering a sense of unity.

How does collective action drive meaningful change, and why is real progress impossible in isolation? What are some examples of communities coming together to challenge injustices and advocate for inclusivity? We reflect on how working together amplifies voices and ensures that no one is left behind.

What does it mean to create an inclusive space, and why is diversity key to a thriving community? How can we ensure that everyone feels safe, valued, and heard in different environments? This conversation highlights the significance of open dialogue, mutual respect, and shared learning in strengthening our bonds.

How can each of us contribute to building a supportive and empowered community? What small yet impactful actions can we take to foster connections and uplift those around us? Join us as we discuss practical ways to create a more connected and compassionate world.

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What role does community play in supporting neurodivergent families? How does sharing personal stories help build resilience and create spaces for understanding? In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, I sit down with Khadija Blah to explore the powerful impact of collective support.

How can we balance life’s highs and lows while ensuring we have a strong network to rely on? Khadija shares her personal experiences, from facing challenges like her son's seizure to celebrating wins, such as attending a school sports day despite mobility issues. What does it mean to truly hold space for others, and why is vulnerability such an important part of building relationships?

How does community advocacy drive systemic change? We discuss how sharing experiences, advocating together, and lifting each other up can lead to more inclusive environments for neurodivergent families. How can we foster these connections in our own lives and be open to unexpected sources of support?

Join us for this heartfelt conversation about the importance of community, the strength found in collective resilience, and the ways we can build inclusive spaces that uplift everyone. Ready to be part of a village that truly understands? Tune in now.

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How does screen time before bed affect children's sleep patterns? What is the role of blue light in suppressing melatonin, and how does it impact sleep onset and quality? In this episode, we explore the science behind screen exposure and its connection to sleep difficulties, especially in neurodivergent children.

What are some practical steps parents can take to create a screen-free bedtime routine? How can families establish tech-free zones and power-down hours to promote healthier sleep habits? We discuss the importance of setting clear boundaries, such as removing screens from bedrooms and creating a calming night-time environment.

What alternative activities can children engage in to wind down without screens? From reading and puzzles to guided relaxation and storytelling, we explore screen-free ways to help children transition smoothly into bedtime. Learn how these activities can support better sleep and overall well-being.

How can parents adapt bedtime routines to meet the unique needs of their children? Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or simply struggles with sleep, we share strategies to personalise bedtime practices that encourage relaxation and restfulness. Tune in to discover small but impactful changes that can make a big difference in your child's sleep quality!

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Email me: hello@leannetran.com.au

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