Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World by Devorah Heitner

Summary

Screenwise by Devorah Heitner is a practical and empathetic guide for parents and educators navigating children's digital lives. The book emphasizes mentorship over monitoring, encouraging adults to approach technology with curiosity and collaboration rather than fear. Heitner draws on research and real-world examples to demonstrate how adults can guide children to develop positive digital habits and resilience. The tone is supportive, aiming to bridge the generational gap around technology and foster open conversations in families about online experiences. The book is filled with actionable strategies and realistic scenarios to help readers support their children’s digital growth.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Mentorship is more effective than surveillance—kids benefit more from guidance and open conversations about online behavior than from strict monitoring.

2. Teaching kids empathy and critical thinking online is essential, as it helps them navigate conflicts, misinformation, and the pressures of social media.

3. Modeling healthy digital habits—including balancing screen time and demonstrating mindful phone use—sets a powerful example for children to follow.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2016

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 89

Practical Examples

1. Establishing digital ground rules together

   Heitner recommends involving children in the creation of family technology guidelines. This collaborative process helps kids feel respected and more likely to follow the rules, while also giving parents insights into their children's perspectives and digital habits.

2. Dealing with online drama

   The book provides step-by-step advice on supporting children through inevitable digital conflicts, such as group chat exclusions or viral misunderstandings. Heitner emphasizes validating kids' feelings, helping them understand others’ perspectives, and brainstorming appropriate responses.

3. Setting boundaries around devices

   Heitner suggests concrete ways to manage device use, like designating device-free zones during meals or before bedtime. She encourages families to have regular check-ins about tech use to ensure boundaries remain reasonable and relevant as kids grow.

4. Co-viewing media and games

   Rather than policing screen time from a distance, Heitner encourages parents to play games or watch shows with their children. This mutual participation not only builds rapport but also gives parents a firsthand look at digital content and opportunities for teachable moments.

5. Responding to digital mistakes with empathy

   When children make poor choices online, such as posting something regrettable, Heitner urges parents to approach these moments with empathy and curiosity rather than punishment. The focus is on learning from mistakes in a supportive environment.

6. Navigating privacy and reputation online

   The book helps parents guide kids in understanding the implications of sharing personal information or images online. Heitner offers scripts and scenarios to help adults teach children about digital footprints and long-term consequences.

7. Encouraging digital creativity

   Heitner shares practical ways for families to harness technology for learning and creativity, such as making videos, coding, or digital art projects together. She sees technology as a tool for self-expression, not just consumption.