203 | from shame to strategy: rethinking screen time with Ash Brandin

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

screen time doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

in this episode, Dr. Tay sits down with Ash Brandin, @thegamereducator and author of Power On, to talk about balancing technology in a way that feels realistic, empowering, and aligned with your child’s brain, especially in neurodivergent children.

this conversation moves beyond fear-based messaging and into nuance — exploring regulation, accommodations, executive functioning, transitions, and digital safety through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.

in this episode:

1. why screen time is morally neutral and why that matters
2. how video games can support executive functioning and skill building
3. using screen time as data about how your child’s brain works
4. why some content is more dysregulating than others
5. practical strategies for transitions off screens
6. how to scaffold digital safety over time

timestamps

00:00 introduction and today’s topic: screen time and technology

00:37 meet Ash Brandin

02:47 Ash’s journey to educating parents on technology

04:50 the importance of neutrality in technology use

06:10 balancing screen time: practical tips and insights

18:18 teaching technology skills: a lifelong approach

22:40 the benefits of screen time for autistic children

25:15 video games as accommodating environments

27:22 observing and learning from kids’ screen time

27:44 addressing hesitancy in using accommodations

29:58 engaging with kids through screen time

30:40 the importance of digital safety

31:48 exploring the book’s structure and key concepts

32:13 understanding access, behavior, and content in screen time

36:28 strategies for managing screen time transitions

40:04 final thoughts and resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ follow Ash on Instagram and on Substack

⚡️ order Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family

⚡️ join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning. dive into the included masterclass to dive deeper into navigating screen time and its benefits for autistic kids

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay