Kids’ Brains & Screens: Home Edition is a family-friendly book that helps parents and kids understand how screen time affects brain health, behavior, and emotional well-being. Written in clear, age-appropriate language, it empowers families with science-based insights and practical tools to build healthier tech habits together. Perfect for home reading, family discussions, and kickstarting positive change beyond screens.
$34.99
Kids’ Brains & Screens: Home Edition brings the science-backed research and powerful insights of the original KBS curriculum into a welcoming, family-focused format. Designed to help parents and children understand how screen time affects brain health, relationships, and development, this edition makes complex science approachable and actionable for everyday life.
The Home Edition is streamlined yet impactful, offering the same foundational education as the classroom version—but tailored specifically for families. It’s ideal for daily reading, dinner-table conversations, book clubs, or small group settings.
Inside this vibrant, easy-to-navigate book, you’ll find:
Eight colorful, age-appropriate chapters that explain how screens affect the developing brain, social skills, emotional resilience, and academic success
A 7-Day Challenge to help families jump-start healthier tech habits together
Clear, practical explanations of how video games, social media, and excessive screen time influence mood, behavior, and development—in language both kids and parents can understand
Whether you’re hoping to guide your children toward healthier digital habits, spark meaningful conversations about technology use, or strengthen real-world connection and well-being, this book offers a compassionate, research-based roadmap for navigating today’s digital landscape.
The Student Edition is designed as a comprehensive classroom curriculum, complete with lesson plans, worksheets, quizzes, activities, and a structured scope and sequence for educators. The Home Edition, by contrast, is intentionally streamlined for family life. It removes school-style instructional materials and presents concise, accessible content that families can read together—anytime, anywhere—making it a natural catalyst for real-world conversations about screens.
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Jonathan Haidt | Author of The Anxious Generation –
A great book for parents and teachers to help kids see for themselves
Kids Brains and Screens is an extraordinary book. It covers so many aspects of digital life, it covers the science for each area, and it makes it all interesting, accessible, and useful to young people. The book is ideal for any school that has a digital media course, for any parent who wants to talk with their adolescent about why they have the family policies they do, and for any young person who can see that digital childhood is damaging some of their friends. The book shows ways out of the trap, ways to regain a human childhood that is full of real world fun.
Dr. Victoria Dunckley | Author of “Reset Your Child’s Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen-Time” –
The missing piece in so-called “digital literacy”
As a pediatric psychiatrist who’s been working to reverse screen time effects for the last 2 decades, it’s become increasingly clear that 1) more emphasis needs to placed on prevention and 2) one of the best ways to do this is by teaching kids about the brain — how it works, how it interfaces with screens, and how this manifests outwardly. Interesting and highly readable, this book empowers kids and provides a solid foundation that parents and educators can build on for years to come. Highly recommend.
Matthew Miles | Co-author of “Screen Schooled” –
Comprehensive yet accessible
This is one of the most comprehensive yet accessible resources on this complex topic that I’ve come across. It manages to tackle the science and psychology behind the issues created by tech overuse while making it relatable and true to young people’s experiences. It’s an amazing resource for children, caregivers, and educators alike.
Dr. Richard Freed | Author of “Wired Child” –
Nothing is more important today for your kids!
This powerful resource gives families real tools to make science-based decisions about their kids’ use of tech and screens. Make getting this book a priority for your kids!
Reed S. –
Finally a book for Teens, but really for the whole family!
I cannot express enough how transformative Kids, Brains, and Screens: Home Edition has been for our family. As a parent, I’ve read plenty of books about screen time (which are great in their own right), but most of them are geared toward adults, where you read cover to cover and then apply the concepts. This book is different. It’s specifically designed for teens and families, with bite-sized lessons that you can go through together, or individually if you prefer.
The approach is so much more interactive and engaging!
We’ve been going through a few pages a day after school, and it’s been eye-opening for all of us. The book dives into the science of the developing brain and explains what is needed for it to grow properly, as well as how screens disrupt that natural development. It really helped me understand the why behind the need for limits on screen time, and my kids have been so on board with the idea of becoming “toxic screen-free.” They are embracing more real-life activities and even influencing their friends.
Though some of their peers make fun of them for not having video games or a smartphone, my kids have stood firm in their decisions. My older son, especially, has become passionate about it—he wishes more of his friends (and parents) would go through this book so they could experience the benefits of stepping away from screens. He even says, “Leveling up is not a flex,” and it’s amazing to see him hold onto that mindset while his friends continue to chase those empty goals.
The book itself is beautifully done—charming illustrations, easy to read, and well laid out. It’s not like a traditional textbook, but more like a magazine in design—light, fun, and easy on the eyes and brain. It’s age-appropriate and, honestly, a pleasure to read together as a family.
If you’re looking for a way to tackle screen time and help your kids understand its impact on their development, I highly recommend THIS book. It’s a must-have for any family looking to educate their children and help them navigate the challenges of screen time in today’s world!
Dr. Bob Stouffer –
YOUR ONLY SOURCE FOR RESEARCH AND SOLUTIONS ON SCREEN USE AND INTERNET ACCESS!
Melanie Hempe is an extremely talented R.N., speaker, podcaster, AND WRITER. This book, her other books, curricula, and articles are certainly evidence of her incredible competency as a communicator. Melanie has been on a right and true mission for 10 years. Her ScreenStrong organization reveals a robust research base pointing to the harms of Internet access and screen use by boys (addiction to pornography and gaming) and girls (anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideations due to social media). Most importantly, Melanie is tremendous about recommending practical, common-sense solutions to students, parents, grandparents, and educators — solutions which will improve emotional wellness, physical well-being, and face-to-face relationship skills of our children and grandchildren. The world is realizing that screens are negatively impacting all of us. Melanie and ScreenStrong rode that wave long ago, as this movement to limit screen use is sweeping the globe. READ…THIS…BOOK.
J. Carlton –
A life-changing book that has sparked many household discussions about tech
I’m a big believer that the books you read should change you, and this book will no doubt change how you think about screens and technology in the lives of the kids in your life. Backed by research, Kids Brains & Screens will give you the scientific evidence behind the slippery slope of screen addiction. In addition, the book is extremely well-written and is brought to life with engaging graphics.
The issue of childhood development and screens is one of the most important issues of this generation of children. Not only does this book outline why this issue is critical today, it provides optimism about the future by offering countless ideas for things to do instead of screens. If you’re a parent of kids under 18, this is the book you’ve been waiting for about screens. If you’re a teacher or grandparent, this book will also have a massive benefit.
Carlito –
A life-changing book that has sparked many household discussions about tech
I’m a big believer that the books you read should change you, and this book will no doubt change how you think about screens and technology in the lives of the kids in your life. Backed by research, Kids Brains & Screens will give you the scientific evidence behind the slippery slope of screen addiction. In addition, the book is extremely well-written and is brought to life with engaging graphics.
The issue of childhood development and screens is one of the most important issues of this generation of children. Not only does this book outline why this issue is critical today, it provides optimism about the future by offering countless ideas for things to do instead of screens. If you’re a parent of kids under 18, this is the book you’ve been waiting for about screens. If you’re a teacher or grandparent, this book will also have a massive benefit.
Marianna –
This is the only book you need on kids and screens
ScreenStrong is the ONLY organization I trust when it comes to information on how screens affect our kids’ brains. They have been at it the longest and are the only truly research backed group out there. I first found them in 2016 and have been following them ever since. Their information is so valuable that a copy of this book should be in every home in America. I have attended close to a dozen seminars put on by ScreenStrong and those are VERY valuable as well. If you want to know how screens change the white matter of your kids’ brain and why our kids are as addicted as they are to their phones — they explain it all. But they don’t stop there. They offer very easy solutions to the problem. And it doesn’t involve new filters or any of the same tired suggestions. I have raised all three of my kids with the principles ScreenStrong teaches and people always stop to tell me it shows. Kids do not need a smartphone. They do not need access to some of the most evil stuff ever conceived on the internet in their pocket. Tech is an awesome tool for communication and ScreenStrong is by no means against tech — but once you see the brain scans and the research stats you’ll never go back to handing out iPhones to kids and teens like it’s just something everyone “has” to have. They don’t. My kids and many other kids I know are proof. They can still have a way to communicate with parents and peers WITHOUT the addictive, anxiety causing, depression inducing part of technology haunting them daily. I hope every parent buys this book!
Zach N. –
Changed my kids’ view of iPads & video games!
We have 2 young boys and, though they are only in elementary school, we’re already getting questions about why we don’t have iPads, why we don’t allow video games, etc. This book has been an invaluable resource. Though our kids are a little younger than the target audience, we were able to read it together and talk about it. The illustrations are so engaging. They prompted many questions from the boys and even some laugh-out-loud moments as we were going through it. I’m so glad we have this while our kids are young so they can see our family’s decision to do things differently is not because we want to be the “fun police,” but because we care about them and their development. It’s The Anxious Generation—but for kids!
ScreenStrong Parent –
So thankful for this resource!
I have 3 kids in double digits and this book has helped us to educate and empower our kids on how screens impact their brains, relationships and more. We have had many great discussions after reading each chapter. I’m glad we all have shared language and understanding as we approach decisions regarding screens in our life. This book is helping all of us to focus on making the most of childhood by not spending it in the digital world.
Andrea –
The Must-Have Tool for Navigating the Digital World with Your Kids! Absolute Game Changer
“Kids Brains and Screens” has had a profound impact on our family dynamic. This book didn’t just provide a framework for meaningful conversations; it also validated and deepened our understanding of our children’s real-life experiences with technology. The language is incredibly accessible, and the visuals are both captivating and effective at reinforcing the lessons in a way that sticks. If you’re looking for a tool to spark deep, insightful discussions about technology within your family, anything from ScreenStrong is a game-changer! This book is an essential resource for navigating the digital world with confidence and purpose. Buy a copy for yourself and grab an extra to share with a friend. Better yet, start a book club and build a tribe of like-minded parents to keep the momentum going!”
Michelle Campbell –
Life changing screen education
This book will educate kids on how screens affect their brains, all backed by research. Would be wonderful to use as dinner table discussions. Love all of the illustrations! A wonderful resource to educate parents and children about one of the most important issues of this generation!
Rebecca Grant –
An invaluable tool for any family navigating the digital world!
As an educator and parent of boys who understands the challenges of managing screen time, I highly recommend the ScreenStrong Kids’ Brains and Screens: Empowering Kids to Overcome Screen Addiction Home Edition. This engaging book provides everything you need to guide your child toward healthier digital habits, including easy-to-follow lessons, appealing graphics, real-life stories, and humor.
Designed especially for middle schoolers, the book breaks down complex ideas in a way that’s easy to understand. It doesn’t just explain why too much screen time can be harmful—it also reveals the persuasive tactics tech companies use to keep kids online. Your child will gain a clear understanding of how video games, social media, and excessive screen use can impact their brain development, emotional well-being, and relationships.
What I love most is how the course opens the door for important family conversations. My own kids are much more receptive to these lessons when they come from outsiders rather than just from me as the “screen time enforcer.” They even recognize and talk about these concepts in their daily lives, making smarter choices about technology. The real-life stories from teens and expert insights included in the book make it even more relatable and impactful.
If you’re looking for a way to help your child develop a healthier relationship with screens, the Kids’ Brains and Screens Home Edition is an invaluable tool. It’s a game-changer for any family navigating the digital world!
MPet –
Just what kids need
This book is such a gift — exactly what kids need to help them understand the effects of smartphones and social media. It’s so perfectly done *for children*, with their brain capacity in mind. There are multiple illustrations on every page. There are exercises, reflections, stories, quick and easy to grasp lessons on dopamine, cyberbullying, pornography, reading social cues.
It’s so perfectly and lovingly done. I’m so happy this book exists. I’m about to buy a copy for a friend’s child, and for our town’s library.
ScreenStrong Parent –
GRATEFUL HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER, MOM, AND CONCERNED ADULT for this ScreenStrong solution
Melanie Hempe has created the most beautifully well written, easy to implement program to address our greatest crisis in the world today. This book and the ScreenStrong organization offers compelling research pointing to the harms of Internet access which is creating addiction to pornography, social media and gaming. It also gives clear evidence about how screens are a major cause of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideations. As a high school teacher I believe my students and ALL STUDENTS will appreciate learning about this crucial information and will be willing to implement the solutions offered. I am confident and excited to see the improvement in my students and coaching clients in their emotional wellness, physical well-being, and relationships. I am so excited to share this with all my family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and the world! It is time for all of us to get SCREENSTRONG!
Cynthia P. –
Provides the “WHY” you need to delay toxic screens for your kids
If you’re feeling uncomfortable about the level of toxic screen use in your home (social media, video games, porn), GET THIS BOOK! I highly recommend reading it along with your child. I read it together with my 11 year old boy and we BOTH got an incredible education around what impacts these screens have.
Armed with the beautifully illustrated graphics, easy to understand research, relatable stories from other kids, and the helpful 7 day challenge in this book, our family better understands how toxic screens can negatively affect all of us and more importantly, what we can do about it. Once you have the knowledge, the desire to pivot and put all your emphasis on real-life activities emerges. And honestly, that is exactly what our kids really want and need us to do for them anyway.
Shalamarkay –
Every parent should grab a copy!!
As a parent, I always worried about my child’s screen time, but KBS Home Edition really opened my eyes to how excessive screen use affects a growing child. The book breaks down the research in a simple, relatable way, showing how screens impact brain development, emotions, and well-being.
What I loved most is that it doesn’t make you feel guilty—rather, it empowers you with practical strategies to set healthier boundaries. Since reading it, I’ve noticed improvements in my child’s attention and mood after making small changes to our screen time habits.
If you are struggling to find balance, this book is a must-read. It is insightful, practical, and gave me the tools to create better habits for my family. Highly recommend!
Crystal Obey –
My 13 Year Old Son Read This Book From Cover to Cover On His Own!
As a homeschooling mom of five, I love having the freedom to be intentional with our time and activities. One of the best decisions we’ve made is to keep video games out of our home—a choice that has truly been a game-changer for our family.
Now that my oldest son is 13, he’s at the age where all his friends have video games and phones. Instead of just expecting him to take our word for the benefits of our position on games and phones, I handed him Kids’ Brains and Screens—and to my surprise, he read it from cover to cover on his own.
We’ve always prioritized explaining why we make certain parenting choices, and this book gave him the science and real-world insights to understand the effects of screens on his brain. Because of what he learned, he now chooses to continue our family’s no-video-game lifestyle.
The step-by-step solutions in this book have given us confidence to maintain healthy screen boundaries, even though both my husband and I work online. In a world where technology is both a powerful tool and a potential threat to what matters most, Kids’ Brains and Screens has been an invaluable resource.
I highly recommend this book—and all of Melanie Hempe’s work—to any family or organization seeking clear, science-backed, and practical strategies for digital wellness. We’re even using the Home Edition for a local book club with other Dallas families, and it’s been an amazing guide for real-life application.
If you want to take back control of your family’s screen habits, start with this book!
Peter Ryan –
A MUST BUY FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN!
This book is rock solid, and, I mean this very sincerely, EVERY FAMILY WITH KIDS NEEDS IT TODAY! Screens are everywhere and just consuming our kids. As a result, kids are suffering more and more at the hands of Big Tech/Big Porn (video games, porn, and social media) and the intentionally addictive screen-based products they are selling. This beautiful Kids Brains and Screens Home Edition is just the right tool for helping a family educate their children about the harms of excess screentime. Just like with drugs or alcohol, young people need education and guidance, and this book does just that. As a digital wellness consultant and parent, I am relieved that we finally have an outstanding product that fills this vast educational gap. Kids’ Brains & Screens home edition is a touchdown and so very needed. Thank you ScreenStrong! As they say in the Navy, Bravo Zulu, Well Done!
ScreenStrong Parent –
Should be on every family’s bookshelf!
This is the book that I have been waiting for! We constantly hear in the media that smartphones and video games are harming our kids’ health and wellbeing. Well, if you want scientifically backed reasons for this like I did, this is the book to buy. If you are considering buying smartphones, iPads, or video game consoles for your children, buy this book and read it first! I no longer need to hunt for articles and do my own research for my kids. The book is written in an easy style, directed at them, so they learn the facts themselves. Every family should have this book on their bookshelf!
Melissa Boyd –
A must have for every home in America
This book was created by the only organization that truly knows what they are talking about when it comes to the research of how screens affect the brains of kids. They’ve been teaching this research to parents for over a decade. Long before this became a hot topic to discuss. They have put all the information in a simple easy to read format for kids and adults alike in this book. I read it. My kids read it. Every parent should own it. Their seminars are amazing too. The woman who started this organization did so because her son was addicted to video games. They address social media addiction, gaming addiction and porn addiction in a way that’s clear and age appropriate and helps both parent and child understand why certain types of screen use can be so toxic to our brains. My kids (including one high school teen and two junior high girls) do NOT have a smartphone thanks to what I learned through ScreenStrong.
ScreenStrong Parent –
A MUST HAVE for all families who supply devices to their children
This is the best product you can purchase to ensure your family understands the dangers of social media and digital devices. The advice is on target, research, and science based. Don’t delay saving your family and your child’s brain from the dangers of social media. In a society plagued by isolation, depression, and anxiety, you will have the power to save your kids from further harm.
Ellen C. –
5 out of 5 stars Important and helpful resource!
I highly recommend this book for families who want to know more about the effects of screens, social media and gaming on their young kids (and teens as well!). The discussion behind the “science” of the young brain is interesting and relatable for kids, and helps parents in their stance of limiting or delaying screens in their homes. I’m so glad I found this book, and the group SCREENSTRONG for amazing and helpful resources and podcasts. I am sharing my book with our school administrators and teachers. Everyone’s struggling with this issue sadly. So glad there are people out there talking about what we ALL know- that screens do have an influence on our kids and their brain development! I recommend this book for your family.
Mr. Smith –
I wish I had this book before!
This is the book I needed when my kids were younger. But at least I have it now for my grandkids!
KBS is an incredibly well-crafted educational experience for the whole family. It has the best content, illustrations, examples, references, resources, practical guidance, and all guided by real and relatable teens. Every kid, teen, parent, and grandparent should read it, and put it into practice.
I’m especially grateful for how positive it is. We all know screens are hurting us. But KBS doesn’t shame us about that. Instead, it gives so many positive alternatives and helpful reasons for making better choices. So good!
There is another way to relate with screens, a better way, and this book shows the way. I can’t want to share it with others!
Carrie Mack –
Finally! The Book That Actually Motivates Kids to WANT Less Screen Time
As a psychologist and parent coach who helps families restore calm amid screen chaos, I can confidently say this book is essential for every household trying to raise kids in this digital era.
What sets it apart? It explains brain science directly to kids through engaging, graphic-novel style visuals.
The most remarkable aspect I’ve witnessed both in my practice and classroom teaching: when children understand how screens physically alter their developing brain, they become self-motivated to change.
No battles necessary. This resource accomplishes what countless lectures and time limits fail to do – it empowers kids with knowledge that makes them want to reduce screen time, cut back on gaming, and limit social media on their own.
For much less than one counseling session, you’re getting a tool that prevents family conflict and fosters healthier digital habits through understanding rather than control, punishments, and parents pulling their hair out.
If you’re tired of fighting the screen battle, this evidence-based, physician-backed book delivers what parents truly need: children who choose healthier habits because they understand why it matters.
Lee Grigg –
This is the book I have been waiting for!
I no longer have to spend hours searching for articles or doing my own research to explain to my kids the impact smartphones and video games have on them. The book is written in an easy-to-read, colourful, and fun format that children can enjoy on their own—no more hearing me lecture them about it! While it’s common knowledge that smartphones and video games are harming our children’s health and wellbeing, this book gives you all the facts—why, how, and much more. I also recommend buying it if you haven’t yet bought smartphones, tablets, or video game consoles for your kids, as it will open your eyes to what happens to their brains once they are on the devices!
Beth Wilson | Author of “Togetherness Town” –
This resource, KIDS BRAINS AND SCREENS – Home Edition – has helped me as an older mother.
I am 56 and raising a teenage son. Both my son and I have enjoyed this book! We find ourselves reading a chapter here and there…skipping around at what is needed for the moment. One day I’ll read a testimony out loud while he eats breakfast. Another day, I’ll have him read to me the section on dopamine or temptation. Each section creates wonderful parent/child discussions. These talks come naturally after reading even a small part of the material. This book is colorful, well laid out, and not too wordy. It’s just the right amount of information with plenty of inspiration to motivate a bored teenager (and his tired mom) into using time wisely and making the most of life.
ScreenStrong Team –
The Best Resource for Families Raising Humans in the ScreenAge!
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2025
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is an eye-opening, science-backed guide that every parent needs in today’s digital world. With clear, accessible language and powerful research, this book empowers families to understand the true impact of screen time on children’s brains, relationships, and daily lives.
More than just facts and figures, it offers practical tools for navigating technology with intention. Parents and kids alike will discover how the brain really works—and how screens can shape thoughts, behaviors, and emotional well-being in ways they may have never realized.
This book doesn’t preach—it teaches. It equips families to make informed, confident decisions about tech use at home. The result? Smarter habits, healthier minds, and stronger connections.
ScreenStrong Team –
Help with managing screen time with your kids!
Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2025
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This amazing book helps families manage screens in their households! Whether you are a family with very young children seeking guidance before screen issues start, or if you are a family with teens and are already experiencing problems with screens in your home, this book will answer all your questions! It explains the science behind brain development and addresses how toxic screens (pornography, social media, and video games) are severely impacting and limiting our children’s healthy social interactions and future educational opportunities! Get the answers you have been seeking to these questions today! Order your copy!!
ScreenStrong Parent –
A Practical Guide For Families!
Such a valuable resource for families who are wanting help navigating the negative consequences of addiction to digital applications and social platforms through mobile technology. This resource will help parents understand the science behind the developmental impacts of these applications and will provide ways to have helpful meaningful conversations with your younger children. An honest and practical guide that will bring some light and hope around a very difficult cultural phenomenon.
Patricia –
A great resource for families trying to navigate the tech world
This home edition is an easy-to-follow guide for families interested in learning more about the impact of screens on developing brains. Information is presented in a clear, interesting way that will appeal to both parents and students. This book provides not only the “what” but also the “how” and the “why” involved in the draw that toxic technology has on brains. Best of all, it offers suggestions for being proactive in avoiding screen struggles and ways to help families withdraw from these screens and replace them with real life activities.
Professor –
Believe the data
As a college professor I see every day the effects of too much screen time on my students. They struggle socially and don’t look me in the eye when we talk. I can only imagine how different they would be if they (and their parents) had read this book when they were younger. The information and strategies in Kids’ Brains and Screens could make a huge difference in my future students. It should be in every parents’ hands!
Dad –
This belongs in every home and school
This book and the curriculum version of Kids Brains and Screens belongs in every home and every school. This is the ONLY honest – independent research informed presentation for kids and families about how these products impact and interrupt healthy development. Please take a copy to your school and ask them to buy the print version as well. Real change to support children and end the phone-based childhood will happen with this education.
ScreenStrong Parent –
Great resource!
This well-designed, easy-to-use workbook is an absolute must for any parent or teacher who wants to raise screen-savvy kids. No issue today is as central to the health and happiness of our children as screen use and abuse. Young people who use this resource will absolutely have the foundation to make smart decisions when it comes to the role of screen use in their lives. This is truly a gift to families everywhere!
P. Campbell –
A must read
Stand in the gap for your children. It’s out responsibility as parents and grandparents to guide our children as they navigate life. This book gives good education, direction and illustration to help with that. Thank you Screenstrong for your commitment to kids and families.
Joe Wurzburger –
A must-read tool for families!
This book is a must-read guide for all parents and those working with kids and teens. It gives you all the tools to understand how screens affect a developing brain and helps families firm their resolve to delay today’s toxic screens.
Jared –
Top notch!
Finally, a book that lays out exactly how to teach my student about screen addiction. Very user friendly, great images, and well written. Thank you so much for making this.
It’s been a game changer!
ScreenStrong Parent –
Child Development
Great information to help parents realize the impact of too much screen time on a child’s development.
Alternate ideas are given.
A Fan –
The Best Book Against the Greatest Threat!
Excellent book! This is the best book available for anyone who cares about our kids and our future. And hopefully that is everyone!