The Myth of the Digital Gene

In this 16-minute TED talk entitled “The Myth of the Digital Gene,” Mary Rothschild, founder and director of Healthy Media Choices, questions the prevailing media-centered narrative that says very young children need media early in life to prepare for their futures. In its place, she offers an alternative, human-centered narrative, which prioritizes attention from adults, free time, open ended play, stories, and real-life connection with others. Emphasizing the importance of attention for all learning, she also describes some ways adults can help children develop attention.

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