What if we approached teen technology and social media use more like teaching someone to drive rather than simply restricting access until they're "old enough"? Media literacy expert Jennifer Berger joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on the Brainy Moms podcast to introduce her groundbreaking program, the Social Media Driver's License, which does exactly that.

After two decades of teaching media literacy to over 10,000 youth, Jennifer noticed a troubling pattern in how we approach teens and technology. Most resources emphasized monitoring, restriction, and punishment – approaches that often backfire by damaging parent-teen relationships and failing to build critical digital skills. Her response? Create a collaborative, skill-building program that prepares tweens and teens to navigate online spaces independently.

The Social Media Driver's License features a unique dual-track approach. Kids ages 10-14 participate in a 10-session course led by older teenagers sharing hard-earned wisdom about social media navigation. Parents simultaneously access an audio course covering essential topics like handling online safety concerns, addressing problematic content, and maintaining healthy conversations about technology. This structure recognizes that eventually, teens will access technology, making preparation more valuable than restriction.

Perhaps most refreshing is Berger's emphasis on maintaining connection. Rather than villainizing teens' digital worlds or implementing rigid, top-down rules, she advocates for genuine curiosity, collaborative boundary-setting, and calm responses when inevitable mistakes occur. As Dr. Amy notes during the conversation, "Connection is the number one buffer against mental health crisis," making this approach particularly valuable for supporting teen wellbeing.

Ready to transform your approach to parenting in the digital age? Check out this episode!

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Wondering what all the social media chatter about genes and genetic variants (like MTHFR) really have to do with your child's health? On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy talk to functional medicine physician Dr. Randy James about the connections between our genes, our environment, and our overall wellbeing.

Dr. James unpacks the philosophy of functional medicine, which seeks to understand the root causes of health issues rather than just masking symptoms. He explains why modern medicine often falls short when addressing chronic conditions or nebulous symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or general unwellness. The key difference? Functional medicine recognizes that every human is "infinitely biochemically unique" and requires a personalized approach.

Dr. James breaks down how our genes and environment interact. He demystifies the often misunderstood MTHFR gene variant, which affects approximately 40% of the population to varying degrees. This genetic variation impacts methylation – a critical process involved in detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cellular repair. Research has shown statistical associations between MTHFR variants and conditions like ADHD, autism, depression, and other mental health challenges.

But here's where hope enters the picture: Dr. James emphasizes that genetic predispositions are not deterministic. Just as someone with fair skin doesn't panic about their increased skin cancer risk but instead adapts with sunscreen and protective clothing, understanding your genetic variants allows you to make targeted lifestyle modifications that can dramatically improve outcomes. From prioritizing organic foods to eating plenty of green vegetables rich in natural B vitamins, these evidence-based strategies can help support optimal methylation pathways.

Parents will find particular value in Dr. James' practical advice for supporting children with genetic predispositions. He outlines developmental red flags to watch for, explains why "normal" symptoms might not be healthy, and offers guidance for navigating the complex world of nutrition and supplementation without becoming overwhelmed.

Ready to take control of your family's health journey? Join us for this empowering conversation that will change how you think about genes, environment, and your power to influence both.

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever wonder why your child can't sit still during lessons? Why they melt down when they're wearing certain clothes? Or why they're suddenly screaming at you when they haven't eaten in hours? The answer might lie in sensory processing—a critical yet often overlooked component of learning and behavior.

In this illuminating conversation, occupational therapist Sarah Collins unpacks how our sensory systems influence every aspect of learning and daily life. Beyond the familiar five senses we all know, she explains how our vestibular system (balance), proprioception (body awareness), and interoception (internal body signals) create the foundation for successful learning and emotional regulation.

Sarah reveals the surprising connection between body awareness and emotion regulation, backed by research showing that children who struggle to sense what's happening in their bodies often have difficulty managing their emotions. This knowledge transforms how we understand "difficult" behaviors—what looks like defiance or lack of focus might actually be sensory overwhelm.

The homeschooling environment offers unique opportunities to accommodate sensory needs. Instead of forcing children to adapt to one-size-fits-all learning environments, parents can create flexible spaces that support each child's sensory profile. Maybe your child comprehends better while gently rocking, standing, or even upside down! As Sarah explains, "calm" doesn't necessarily mean "still"—it means the nervous system is regulated enough to process information effectively.

Most powerfully, Sarah shares practical strategies for identifying sensory needs and adapting environments accordingly. From morning routines that incorporate movement to sensory-friendly workspaces, these approaches can dramatically improve learning outcomes. She also discusses how to balance competing sensory needs when siblings have different—sometimes opposite—requirements for successful learning.

Ready to transform your homeschool experience? Listen now to discover how understanding sensory processing can lead to less frustration, more enjoyment, and deeper learning for your entire family.

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com