A research-backed guide to kids, screen time, and real family life

The goal of our blog is simple: help you make sense of the media already showing up in your home. We break down what child development research actually says about kids’ growing brains and how media can support them. Every article is expert-reviewed, grounded in developmental science, and written by parents, for parents.

When Do Kids Start Making Friends? And How Can High-Quality Shows Support?

Expert-reviewed by Dr. Kristyn VanDahm

Mar 30, 2026

When Do Kids Start Making Friends? And How Can High-Quality Shows Support?

Children begin forming the foundations of friendship in infancy. Here's what the research says about how friendship develops — and how high quality media and stories can actually support it.

Social AwarenessSocial ConfidenceSocial Cues

If At First You Don’t Succeed, Try, Try Again

Expert-reviewed by Dr. Kristyn VanDahm

Jan 27, 2026

If At First You Don’t Succeed, Try, Try Again

Why perseverance develops earlier than you think

persistenceperserverencecharacter

I Always Feel Like… Somebody’s Watching Me

Expert-reviewed by Dr. Kristyn VanDahm

Jan 21, 2026

I Always Feel Like… Somebody’s Watching Me

When children struggle, parents often reach for words of encouragement. You can do it! Don’t give up.

characterperseverance

Screen Time and the Holidays: What Child Development Research Actually Says

Expert-reviewed by Dr. Kristyn VanDahm

Dec 20, 2025

Screen Time and the Holidays: What Child Development Research Actually Says

During this time of year, filled with travel and traditions, families find themselves navigating airports, traffic, unfamiliar beds, and very big feelings from very small people.