The Impact of Screen Time on Youth Athletics and Mental Health: Key Takeaways from Our Latest Webinar with Larissa Mills and Nicole Rawson

In a recent sports & screens-focused webinar featuring Larissa Mills, founder of the Mental Game Academy (MGA) in Canada, and Nicole Rawson, Executive Director of Screen Time Clinic®, the two experts delved into the pressing issue of excessive screen time and its far-reaching effects on children’s mental health and athletic performance at all ages. Here’s a recap of the insightful discussion and key points they covered, along with next steps for parents and educators alike.

Mental Health and Youth Development

Both Larissa and Nicole emphasized the growing concerns over screen time and social media’s impact on children’s mental performance and overall development. Larissa introduced a cognitive processing course designed to help parents and coaches equip their kids with the necessary mental skills to navigate these challenges. She discussed the mounting evidence from pediatric neurologists about delayed cognitive development in children due to excessive screen time. Additionally, she pointed out an alarming trend: children are exhibiting anxiety-like symptoms that stem from dopamine-driven behavior rather than genuine anxiety.

Nicole echoed Larissa’s concerns, emphasizing how screen time depletes children’s mental resources and impairs their ability to focus and perform in sports. Both experts agreed that proactive involvement from parents and even government guidelines are needed to curb excessive tech use and ensure children’s mental and emotional wellbeing.

Social Media’s Impact on Youth and Sports Participation

Another significant issue addressed was the detrimental effect of social media on youth brain development. Larissa and Nicole agreed that there is overwhelming evidence, particularly from independent studies, showing the negative consequences of social media on developing brains. They referred to the situation as a “pandemic of behavior” fueled by addictive technology use. Both proposed that governments should consider issuing guidelines prohibiting social media use before the age of 18, and urged parents to take more assertive steps in managing their children’s screen time.

The experts also highlighted a troubling statistic: 33% of children globally are not signing up for sports, a decline that coincides with increased screen time and digital distractions. Nicole and Larissa agreed that the education system and healthcare professionals should take a more active role in addressing these issues, as children’s physical and mental health are inextricably linked.

Addressing the Negative Effects of Screen Time in Athletes

For young athletes, excessive screen time presents additional challenges. Larissa and Nicole discussed the addictive nature of social media and gaming, and how these behaviors can lead to obsessive-compulsive tendencies. These distractions not only impact academic performance but also hinder athletic potential. Athletes who spend too much time on their devices may struggle with focus, discipline, and the mental resilience needed for competitive sports.

To counteract these effects, Larissa and Nicole emphasized the role of parents in guiding their children towards healthier habits. Encouraging alternative activities such as outdoor games, documentaries, and family time can significantly reduce the lure of screens. They warned parents to be vigilant about their children’s habits, as these can quickly spiral into unhealthy behaviors that are difficult to reverse.

Parenting in the Digital Age: Coaching and Support

Raising healthy, well-adjusted children in the digital age comes with unique challenges. Larissa and Nicole agreed that parents today must be even more engaged and intentional when it comes to managing their children’s tech use. Larissa shared her observations on the impact of parental support in youth sports, noting that athletes with strong parental guidance tend to perform better both on and off the field.

Nicole expanded on the idea, introducing the concept of “phone abuse” or neglect stemming from excessive device exposure. She highlighted parents’ legal and moral responsibilities in ensuring their children’s wellbeing, especially when tech misuse could lead to harm. Both experts proposed greater collaboration between schools, leadership, and mental health professionals to offer coaching programs that help parents navigate these challenges. This could include digital detox programs through Screen Time Clinic and mental skills training with the MGA.

Investing in Children’s Wellbeing: A Call to Action for Parents

Ultimately, both Larissa and Nicole underscored the importance of investing in children’s wellbeing by reducing their reliance on technology. Encouraging participation in after-school programs, sports, and family activities is crucial to their development. Larissa pointed out how children in European countries benefit from longer involvement in structured programs, leading to better sleep, improved behavior, and healthier screen time habits.

One practical recommendation for parents is to establish clear boundaries with technology use, such as banning phones in bedrooms and encouraging children to spend time without their devices. To receive assistance in how to implement these new routines in a way that best suits your child, professional screen time consultation is recommended with the educators at Screen Time Clinic® or investigate The Mental Game Academy programs.

For More Information and Support

A video of the webinar can be accessed on the Screen Time Clinic® website for visual and auditory learners to further support families, coaches, and educators consider this important aspect of healthy living.  

Stay tuned for future webinars and resources that will help parents, educators, and those working with families address the digital challenges facing today’s youth.®