Turning Baby Talk into Tech Talk: Insights from Dr. Monika Buerger

Screen time has become an integral part of our lives, but its impact on the developing brain is a growing concern for many parents and practitioners. In a recent ChiroSecure Malpractice Insurance episode of Look to the Children, Dr. Monika Buerger of the Academy of Neurodevelopmental Practices, along with Elizabeth, tackled this timely topic in their presentation: "Turning Baby Talk into Tech Talk."

This blog highlights the key takeaways from their discussion, offering actionable insights for chiropractors to educate their practice members on managing screen time and supporting healthier neurodevelopment.

How Screen Time Affects the Developing Brain

Dr. Buerger and Elizabeth dive into the growing body of research on how screen time influences the developing brain. The early years are critical for neurodevelopment, and excessive or inappropriate tech exposure can disrupt essential processes.

Key concerns they highlighted include:

• Delayed Sensory-Motor Development: Screen time reduces opportunities for physical movement and sensory exploration, which are vital for brain development.
• Attention and Memory Challenges: Overexposure to fast-paced media can affect attention spans and the brain’s ability to process and retain information effectively.
• Dysregulated Emotional Health: Increased screen time is linked to overstimulation of the nervous system, contributing to emotional dysregulation and behavioral challenges.

How the Brain Remembers Information Best

Understanding how the brain retains information is essential for supporting optimal learning and development. Dr. Buerger and Elizabeth emphasized the importance of:

• Multi-Sensory Learning: The brain thrives on input from multiple senses. Hands-on, interactive activities help children process and store information more effectively than passive screen consumption.
• Movement and Play: Physical activity stimulates the brain and enhances memory retention, making it a crucial element in child development.
• Routine and Repetition: Consistent routines and repeated exposure to information create stronger neural connections, helping the brain to encode and recall details better.

The “January Thaw” Tech-Free Campaign

One of the standout ideas from the episode is the “January Thaw” Tech-Free Campaign, an initiative designed to help families reset their relationship with technology after the holidays.

Dr. Buerger and Elizabeth encourage chiropractors to share this campaign with their practice members as a way to promote healthy habits. Here’s how you can implement it in your practice:

1. Host a Tech-Free Challenge: Invite families to commit to tech-free evenings or weekends throughout January to foster more quality time and sensory-motor activities.
2. Provide Resources: Share tips for unplugged activities, such as family walks, board games, or hands-on crafts, to inspire tech-free engagement.
3. Educate on the Benefits: Use your practice platform to explain how reducing screen time can positively impact attention, sleep, and emotional well-being.
4. Celebrate Success: Encourage families to share their experiences and successes, creating a community of support and motivation.

Why This Matters for Chiropractors

As chiropractors, you play a vital role in guiding families toward better health and development. By addressing screen time and its impact on the developing brain, you can:

• Educate parents on creating healthier tech habits for their children.
• Offer actionable strategies to support neurodevelopment in a tech-heavy world.
• Strengthen your connection with families by providing practical tools for improved well-being.

Watch the Full Episode

To gain even deeper insights from Dr. Monika Buerger and Elizabeth, check out their full presentation: Watch the Recording

Stay Connected

Follow Dr. Monika Buerger and the Academy of Neurodevelopmental Practices for more strategies, tips, and updates to support your practice and promote healthier generations:

• Facebook: facebook.com/anpchiropractors
• Instagram: instagram.com/anpchiropractors
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/academy-of-neurodevelopmental-practices
• X/Twitter: x.com/anpchiro
• YouTube: youtube.com/@anpchiropractors

Let’s work together to support the developing brain and create healthier relationships with technology in 2024 and beyond! 🌟