As children spend more time engaging with screens - whether through social media, gaming, or streaming - there are growing concerns about the impact on their ability to focus, self-regulate, and form meaningful real-world connections. This is a topic that resonates with us all, especially as I prepare to navigate technology with my daughter.

In today’s episode, we welcome Helen Bray, Director of SEND, onto the podcast to discuss ‘Digital Dilemmas’. Helen explores how the digital world is reshaping child development, particularly in relation to executive function, emotional regulation, social skills, and attention.

During their conversation, Dale and Helen delve into the complexities of the digital world, addressing issues such as the “monkey-see, monkey-do” phenomenon, smartphone usage, communication skills, and the importance of setting boundaries. Helen emphasises the challenges and opportunities that arise in the digital age and suggests ways schools, parents, and professionals can support young people in developing healthier relationships with technology.

“It's about having those difficult conversations and not avoiding them.” Helen Bray

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Director of SEND for the East Midlands Education Trust, with 20 years of experience in teaching and leadership across early years, primary, and secondary education. A passionate advocate for adaptive practice, I work with schools to embed it as the golden thread through all teaching and learning.

I champion relational practice, ensuring high-quality SEMH support is a core part of every school’s universal offer. Committed to breaking down the silos, I believe in a holistic approach to supporting children and young people. I also collaborate closely with local authorities to improve inclusion services for children and families.

https://www.emet.uk.com/

www.linkedin.com/in/helen-bray-b8130826a

Positive Social : Helping young people survive + thrive on social media

Responsible Innovation in Technology for Children | Innocenti Global Office of Research and Foresight

Keep Children Safe Online: Information, advice, support - Internet Matters

CEOP Safety Centre

• B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk
• Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast
• Email Dale – dale@bsquared.co.uk
• Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe

We have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.