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A throwback to our DigitalParenthood Summit back in June! NYT Best-Selling Author and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Becky Kennedy sat down with award-winning, Emmy-nominated journalist Poppy Harlow at o...
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Today's AI chatbots have come a long way from simple question-and-answer programs. These advanced systems can now generate conversations that feel remarkably like real relationships. Many are even ma...
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Our latest "Tech/Life Balance" resources are now available to the DigitalParenthood community! The first installment in our series is focused on social-emotional health and gives parents the tools...
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From Sleep to Social: Measuring What Matters in Your Child’s Digital Wellbeing
Technology is deeply woven into our kids’ lives—from schoolwork and socializing to entertainment and relaxation. As parents, it’s easy to wonder: Is my child’s screen time healthy? Is it supporting or interfering with their well-being? The reality is, screen time alone doesn’t tell the whole story. A child who spends hours online researching a passion project is engaging differently than one endlessly scrolling out of boredom. A teen who socializes primarily through group chats might not need as much face-to-face time as their peers. Context matters. That’s why Aura goes beyond simple screen-time limits. Instead of just measuring hours, we track patterns of digital behavior—helping parents understand not just how much time is spent on devices, but how that time impacts sleep, daytime activity, and social engagement. This article explores the three key areas Aura measures—sleep, daytime device use, and social activity—to help families build healthier digital habits without unnecessary stress. Why These Three Areas Matter When it comes to digital well-being, research consistently points to a few key factors that influence mental and physical health: Quality sleep – Poor sleep is linked to increased stress, difficulty focusing, and emotional regulation challenges. Device use can interfere with sleep, but healthy habits can also support it. Balanced daytime activity – Screen time that replaces movement, in-person socializing, or creative engagement can contribute to higher anxiety and difficulty focusing. Healthy social engagement – Digital social habits change over time. A sudden drop-off or spike in activity might reflect changes in a child’s well-being. Aura tracks how device behaviors influence these areas over time, giving parents a more complete picture of their child’s digital habits. Sleep: The Foundation of Well-Being We all know sleep is important, but for teens, it’s critical. Sleep regulates mood, helps with stress management, and is essential for academic performance. Yet research shows that most teens aren’t getting enough sleep—often due to late-night screen use. Devices can interfere with sleep in three key ways: Total Sleep Time (TST) – Teens need 8–10 hours of sleep per night, but late-night scrolling or gaming can reduce the time available for rest. Sleep Regularity – An inconsistent sleep schedule (staying up late some nights, or waking up early on other days) can throw off the body’s circadian rhythm and influence wellbeing. Sleep Fragmentation – Frequent nighttime notifications or the habit of checking a phone in the middle of the night can interrupt deep sleep, making it less restorative. How Aura Helps Aura measures Sleep window—the total offline time a child has at night—to assess whether screen time is cutting into total sleep time. Device downtime habits— when screens are used before bed and in the morning—to assess whether device downtime habits are supportive of a regular sleep schedule. Overnight usage—how often and for how long your child is using their device during sleep hours–to assess whether online usage is encouraging more sleep fragmentation. This provides parents with insights into whether screen habits are supporting or disrupting sleep—without needing to track every bedtime. Daytime Device Use: Finding Balance Screen time isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it supports learning, connection, and entertainment. But problems arise when long, uninterrupted sessions or excessive daily use replace essential offline activities like movement, socializing, and creative play. Rather than focusing on strict screen-time limits, research suggests looking at what screen time is displacing—a concept known as displacement theory. How Aura Helps Aura tracks: Long Sessions – Any screen use lasting over two hours without a break, which may contribute to screen fatigue, difficulty shifting between tasks, and reduced movement. Total Screen Time – A child’s daily screen time is assessed to see if it’s within a range that allows for offline activities like exercise, socializing, and sleep. By monitoring these trends over 14 days, Aura helps parents recognize patterns—like whether their child is taking enough breaks or if screen use may be starting to replace important offline activities. Social Activity: Not Just How Much, But How It Changes For teens, social connection is everything. Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected—but it’s also introduced new complexities. Some kids socialize constantly online, while others engage in brief, focused interactions. Neither is necessarily a concern—what matters is whether their usual patterns shift. A sudden drop-off in social activity might indicate stress, isolation, or changes in friendships. A significant increase could mean excitement over a new community—or it could reflect pressure to stay constantly connected. How Aura Helps Rather than tracking individual messages, Aura looks at high-level social trends: Social Persona – Aura uses an AI powered approach to identify how kids fall into six digital social personas based on their engagement patterns, like session length, app diversity, and messaging frequency on social apps. Baseline vs. Change Over Time – Aura then assesses what’s typical for your child and helps you identify changes in their baseline, or typical way of interacting online. Highlighting Trends, Not Individual Activity – Parents see changes in social engagement levels, not private conversations, ensuring parents are aware of important changes to spot early warning signs to check in, while kids maintain their privacy. How Parents Can Use This Information Understanding digital habits isn’t about control—it’s about guiding kids toward healthy tech use. Here are some practical ways parents can use Aura’s insights: Look for patterns, not single data points – A late night on their phone or a high-screen-time day isn’t always a concern. Consistent trends over time are what matter. Encourage curiosity – Instead of enforcing strict limits, ask: What’s your favorite part about being online? What’s the hardest? Trying to understand their experience and approaching the conversation with curiosity can help you find boundaries that support your family’s needs. Focus on balance, not just reducing screen time – The goal isn’t to eliminate screen use, but rather scaffold teens toward screen usage that supports their wellbeing and is complimentary to other positive offline experiences. Aura gives parents the information they need to have better conversations, not tighter restrictions—helping families build healthier digital habits together.
The Ultimate Digital Parenthood Gift Guide
A note from Aura's Chief Medical Officer, DrScott As a parent, I love my kids more than anything. And I know you do, too. But I'd be lying if I said it wasn't hard to be a parent sometimes! I think that's a pretty universal feeling around the world and even through time. If I had a way to transport myself back to the middle ages, I bet I'd find some parents to commiserate with (even though our parenting challenges would certainly be different!) This decade might be the hardest time ever to be a parent, though. According to an advisory issued by the Surgeon General , a whopping 48% of parents say that most days their stress is completely overwhelming (compared to 26% among other adults.) There's so much to worry about: online safety, offline safety, health, balancing remote school and remote work…the list goes on. And it gets even more difficult during the holidays! It feels like kids are talking about new tech every five minutes these days—and revising their gift lists just as fast. Heck, there's even an AI Santa Claus that can have a conversation with your kids. (Is that even safe? We're still trying to decide!) So we, in collaboration with several of our DigitalParenthood experts, wanted to do whatever we could to make your holiday season easier. As a parent, you need community, support, and resources to help you create safe online and offline environments for your kids. This gift guide serves as the latter—and our community of supportive parents and experts is always open to you at DigitalParenthood.com. Wishing you a happy, peaceful holiday season. Download your copy below ⬇️Talking to Teens About AI: A Quick Guide for Parents
How AI Impacts Everyday Life Aura data has shown that one in five children are actively using AI-based apps, including accessing content meant for adults. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way kids learn, communicate, and use technology. From AI-powered tutoring to chatbot companions and deepfake technology, these tools offer exciting possibilities but also bring risks. While AI can boost creativity, education, and efficiency, it can also expose kids to inappropriate content, social manipulation, and ethical concerns. What is Generative AI? AI comes in different forms, which can make it hard for parents to keep up! Generative AI (Gen AI) creates new content—text, images, music, and videos—by recognizing patterns in the data it has learned from. Unlike traditional AI, which analyzes information, Gen AI generates entirely new outputs. Some common examples include: Chatbots – AI tools that help with conversations and writing. AI-generated images and deepfakes – Used to create or alter pictures and videos. AI-powered music and content creators – Programs that compose music, generate video scripts, and assist with storytelling. While these tools can be useful, they also pose risks, such as generating inappropriate content and spreading misinformation. How Teens Use AI Many parents don’t realize how much their kids are already using AI. A Common Sense Media survey of 1,045 children found that 70% of teens have used AI, but only 37% of parents were aware (Madden et al., 2024). Since AI tools are so easy to access, parents must take an active role in helping their kids use AI safely and responsibly. Hope Lab's report from the survey also explored the question: "What is one important thing adults should know about how teens use AI?" through additional research and analysis. The findings highlighted several key use areas: AI in Schoolwork – Teens use AI regularly for assignments, sometimes in ways that cross into cheating. General Curiosity – Many teens ask AI random questions to learn or get quick answers. Companionship – Some use AI chatbots for comfort and as conversation partners. Creativity & Entertainment – Teens enjoy AI for art, music, and other creative projects. Self-Image & Social Media – Some modify their appearance in photos using AI tools. Dishonesty & Bullying – AI is sometimes used for deception, such as faking voices to trick parents or for cyberbullying. Sexual Curiosity – Some teens turn to AI for intimate or explicit conversations. Despite these concerns, teens also believe adults can play a supportive role in helping them navigate AI responsibly. Understanding AI Risks Aura is studying the safety measures and risks of generative AI apps to help parents understand how to monitor them wisely. Some AI tools are safer than others, so it’s important to know which ones need extra caution. Aura has created the following categories to help parents and teens make informed choices about AI use: High-risk AI – Includes chatbots and deepfakes that could lead to emotional dependency, misinformation, online exploitation, or grooming. Moderate-risk AI – Includes learning tools that could pose ethical concerns, such as AI-generated homework assistance, or be misused if safeguards are bypassed. Low-risk AI – Includes creativity and problem-solving tools that help with education when used responsibly. By understanding these levels, parents can guide their children toward AI tools that are both safe and beneficial. Helping Your Teen Navigate AI Safely AI is advancing quickly, which means risks like misinformation, bias, and ethical concerns are always evolving. But just as we teach kids to stop, look, and think before crossing the street, we can teach them to pause, question, and verify when using AI. You don’t need to have all the answers—just starting the conversation is a great first step. Here are some practical ways to talk to your child about AI: Foster Open Conversations – Ask your child about their experiences with AI and encourage critical thinking about AI-generated content. If they’re using a new AI tool, ask why they like it and how they use it. Trying AI tools yourself can also help you understand their digital world and make these conversations easier. Encourage Responsible AI Use – Teach your child that AI is a tool for learning and creativity, but they should be mindful of ethics and privacy. Remind them that AI-generated content can sound human but isn’t always accurate. Just like talking to a friend, AI doesn’t know everything—encourage them to question and fact-check before trusting AI-generated information. Educate About AI’s Risks – Explain how AI algorithms work and discuss the risks of misinformation and manipulation. AI doesn’t “know” facts—it predicts answers based on data, which means it can be wrong or biased. Also, make them aware that some AI tools collect personal data and that people can use AI to manipulate or deceive others online. Empower Critical Thinking – Teach your child to question AI-generated content by asking, Is this true? Where does this information come from? Teaching them to question AI-generated content helps them develop a healthy skepticism and navigate AI responsibly. Set Digital Boundaries – Use parental controls when needed and monitor AI-related app usage. Setting limits may be difficult—especially with teens—but remind them that these boundaries aren’t punishments. They are temporary safeguards to help them build the skills they need to use AI responsibly. Gen AI Algorithms Algorithms can be difficult to understand. Since the AI learns initially by “reading” a lot of information, the risk is that it may not have all of the necessary information which leads to misinformation. Here is a brief description of how the algorithms work at a high level: Learning from Information – AI reads and remembers tons of books, websites, and conversations. Recognizing Patterns – It notices which words and ideas go together. Guessing the Next Word – Instead of thinking, it predicts what words should come next, like a super-fast guessing game. Getting Smarter Over Time – AI improves as it gets more data, but it still doesn’t understand things like a person does. Although AI can be mistaken as a human in a conversation (especially by kids), it is a really smart computer program that learns by looking at tons of information and recognizing patterns. You’re Already Doing Enough You don’t need to be an AI expert! What matters most is staying curious, open, and involved in your child’s digital world. By learning together, you’re helping them develop the skills to use AI safely, think critically, and make responsible choices online. Since AI regulations are still developing, several organizations provide resources for parents. Check out these websites for more tips on guiding your child’s AI use: Common Sense Media (DigitalParenthood partner!) Child Rescue Coalition Unicef Hope LabNavigating AI Companion Apps: A Parent's Guide
Today's AI chatbots have come a long way from simple question-and-answer programs. These advanced systems can now generate conversations that feel remarkably like real relationships. Many are even marketed as "virtual friends" or "AI girlfriends/boyfriends," and they're becoming increasingly popular with young people. As this technology becomes part of our digital landscape, you’ll want to know how to help your children to navigate it safely. What Are AI Companions? Think of them as super-sophisticated chatbots, using text or voice to simulate conversation and foster emotional connection. They are able to mimic human interaction in ways that feel personal and realistic, creating an illusion of friendship or understanding. They can talk about almost any topic, are highly engaging, and unlike generic chatbots they are designed specifically to replicate friendship or intimate relationships. Why Are Young People Drawn to These Apps? There are a number of reasons why AI companions may be popular among young users: Judgment-free: They can ask questions, express thoughts and explore curiosities without fear of being judged, criticized or embarrassed. Escape from social pressure: They may get relief from the social comparison that can characterize their human relationships, especially on social media. For example, trying to maintain a certain image or ‘fit in’. Emotional support on demand: They can get answers to their questions anytime they want as AI companions are available 24/7. This is instant access if they are feeling down, want someone to talk to or are simply curious about something. Customizable experience: Some AI companions can be customized to match their interests and communication style, making them particularly appealing. Creativity and exploration: They may also use them as a space to explore ideas or as a low pressure way to practice conversations to build social confidence without fear of rejection from others. Young people may also be naturally drawn to experimenting with new technology, and AI companions are an easy way to do this. What Should Parents Be Concerned About? Despite the benefits, these apps are controversial with Common Sense Media going as far to say that they should not be used by minors. Many apps claim they are for adults (17+ years) but often lack effective age verification, allowing young people to use them. Here are some of the risks to be aware of: Inappropriate content: Content can be age-inappropriate, and advice may be inaccurate or even harmful. Many AI companions have weak or easily bypassed filters which means users can also access explicit sexual, violent or even illegal content. Emotional dependency: Some people may become reliant on AI validation, potentially withdrawing from real-life friendships which can be more challenging. Conversations are also so life-like that it is easy to forget you are chatting with AI. Unhealthy relationship models: The AI may create unrealistic expectations, by always agreeing with users without setting boundaries. This illusion of a "perfect friend" risks normalizing inappropriate dynamics and undermining the development of healthy, consenting and respectful relationships. Exacerbating mental health issues: When users express negative thoughts or harmful perspectives, the AI companion often validates these views rather than providing constructive challenge or guidance toward healthier alternatives. This can make how someone feels worse. Privacy vulnerabilities: Like other online interactions, personal information and conversations can be stored and used in ways your child may not expect. What Can Parents Do? Talk To Your Kids About AI Companions Start with genuine curiosity, not judgement. If children feel they’re being criticized for their digital relationship they’ll likely become defensive and close down. So try to open up conversations with something curious like “I’m interested in these AI companions, what’s your experience been like?”. You might want to ask them what apps they use, what they like about the interactions, or what interesting conversations they’ve had. Create safety guidelines together. Don’t avoid talking about the risks as it’s important children are made aware of them, but do this in a collaborative way. You could share age-appropriate articles to spark discussion or share your concerns and suggest agreeing on some guardrails together. For example, not sharing identifiable information online, avoiding certain apps, and coming to you with anything confusing or concerning. It could be helpful for you to become familiar with some of the most popular companion apps to better understand their content and any security features. Develop critical thinking. You want to encourage critical thinking so they can also evaluate the safety of the apps they are using themselves. You could review AI responses with your child, asking “why might it say this” or “how might a person respond differently”. Teach them to question what they’re told, for example “how does the AI know this” or “what perspective is it missing?”. Balance Virtual and Real-World Connections Help them understand the limitations of an AI relationship. Talk about the differences between AI and human connection. For example the AI may offer comfort but lacks true understanding or genuine concern. AI is also more likely to agree with you than show you an alternative perspective. Actively strengthen real-world connections. Support your child to maintain and strengthen in-person connections. Encourage social activities with friends, plan regular family time without devices (including your own!) and model healthy relationships you build in your own life. Explore alternative coping strategies. Help your child to understand their own patterns. For example, if they’re using the companion when they’ve had a tough day, are there any other strategies they could use to help them? Keep Communication Open Monitor your reactions. These new technologies may be worrisome, but if your child shares something with you try to avoid immediate negative reactions as this could discourage further openness. Try to create a safe space where they can share concerns and you can work through solutions together. Final Thoughts AI companions require guidance to ensure healthy use. By helping your children understand the reality behind these technologies, you empower them to engage with AI appropriately while maintaining meaningful human relationships. Remember that your real-world connection with your child is the most powerful protective factor. By maintaining open, non-judgmental communication about technology, you help them develop the critical thinking skills they'll need to navigate not just today's AI companions, but whatever new technologies emerge in their future. This article was created in partnership with Kate Daley. Further reading Hollanek, T., & Sobey, A. (2025). AI Companions for Health and Mental Wellbeing: Opportunities, Risks and Policy Implications. Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence. https://doi.org/10.17863/CAM.115939 Malfacini, K. The impacts of companion AI on human relationships: risks, benefits, and design considerations. AI & Soc (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00146-025-02318-6 Pratt N, Madhavan R, Weleff J. Digital Dialogue—How Youth Are Interacting With Chatbots. JAMA Pediatr. 2024;178(5):429–430. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.0084. https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/articles/happy-valentines-day-romantic-ai-chatbots-dont-have-your-privacy-at-heart/ https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/meta-ai-chatbots-sex-a25311bf?st=5Q9cWi&What's Keeping Me Up: The Roblox Report🎥
Hey all, Dr. Scott here! The media was abuzz this week with the news of a report released by short-selling investigative firm Hindenburg Research. The report claims that Roblox is a "pedophile hellscape for kids." As the father of two gamers, this concerns me, so I sat down with them to get their thoughts. Hear what we have to say at the video below, and sound off in the comments on what you think of the latest report. Will this change any rules you have with your kids as it relates to time spent on Roblox?
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The online world is full of questions — and we’re here to help answer them. Ask one of our Experts a question about raising a kid in a digital world.Clinical Office Hours
As clinical psychologists and parents, Dr. Scott Kollins, PhD and Dr. Jessica Flannery, PhD have seen first-hand how technology usage, screen time, gaming and social media can alter behavior. Together, they aim to spotlight information parents need to raise a healthy and balanced generation. Here you can learn more about the latest research on kids and technology, developmental considerations for parenting connected kids and practical guidance to help set appropriate boundaries.
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Child Identity Theft
Adults aren’t the only ones at risk of identity theft. As many as 1 in 50 children fall victim every year (Javelin). We’ve got the tools you need to keep them safe.
Cyberbullying
While bullying of any kind is dangerous and troublesome for children, cyberbullying has become extremely prevalent, difficult to stop, and can cause lasting damage. Learn how to protect your kids against cyberbullying here.
Gaming
Kids are spending more time gaming online than ever before, often playing on new platforms that most parents have never heard of. Here you can learn the basics of online gaming safety, what you need to know about commonly played games and how to protect your children from digital threats.
Internet Safety for Kids
Want to learn about online safety for your kids, but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place. We’ve got all sorts of ways for you to get started.
Online Predators
It’s natural for parents to worry about online predators. Instead of acting out of fear, arm yourself with these resources, designed to help you keep your kids safe online—and give you peace of mind.
Parental Controls
Worried your kids spend too much time online? Concerned about what they might see? Who they’re speaking with? It might be a good time to explore parental controls. From content filtering and screen time management to safe gaming and usage tracking, parental controls can help you find the balance that’s right for your family.
Social Media
Not sure if your child should use social media? Want to help them navigate it safely? Here, you’ll find resources to help answer many of your questions about kids and social media.
Tech Milestones
Whether your kid wants to use your iPad to play games or you’re considering getting your tween their own phone, we’re here to help you navigate some of the biggest technology milestones families face.
Youth Mental Health
Innovations in technology have made connection easier, education more accessible and increased efficiencies; but some concerns and challenges have come along with it. Check out our resources on youth mental health and digital wellbeing here.