088: Screens, Smartphones, and Divorce: What Every Co-Parent Needs to Know with Chris Perry

Childhood is being reshaped by screens, and co-parents are often on the front lines of that change. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Perry, Executive Director of Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development, to unpack what the research really shows about kids, tech, and two-home families.

We explore how smartphones, social media, gaming, and even emerging AI companions affect children’s brain development, mental health, and capacity for real-world connection. Chris explains how conflicting technology rules between households can heighten conflict, confuse kids, and undermine healthy boundaries — and how co-parents can realign around child-centered guidelines.

Listeners learn why struggle, experimentation, and face-to-face interaction are irreplaceable for healthy development, and why relying on devices or chatbots as “easy” solutions can quietly erode those experiences. The conversation offers research-backed, practical takeaways to help parents, co-parents, and family law professionals create consistent tech expectations that truly prioritize children’s long-term well-being.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Biggest misconceptions parents have about kids and technology  
  • Age and stage differences in screen use and brain development  
  • Screen time vs. “what’s happening online” and why both matter  
  • AI chatbots, digital companions, and the risks of kids anthropomorphizing machines  
  • Dopamine, addiction-like patterns, and the impact on attention, mood, and joy  

Resources from this Episode

https://mailchi.mp/7391d300e044/children-and-screens-names-cali-gov-senior-advisor-as-first-executive-director 

www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com

All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. 

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The post 088: Screens, Smartphones, and Divorce: What Every Co-Parent Needs to Know with Chris Perry appeared first on Children First Family Law PC.



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