Beyond the Screen: The Family Connection Podcast

What Parents Get Wrong About Play (And How to Fix It)

We all say we value play, but I've also noticed and done this myself--unknowingly block it, rush it, or overcomplicate it.
In this episode, Dr. Samantha Hayes breaks down the most common misconceptions parents have about play, why those beliefs actually limit connection and creativity, and how to shift toward a more sustainable, screen-free play culture at home. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of what play really is, how it supports regulation and learning, and how to fix the most common play pitfalls, without adding more to your plate.
If you'd like to attend an upcoming workshop, you can register here: https://www.beyondthescreenfamilies.com/shop-1
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Tiny Screen-Free Connection Moments That Make a Big Difference

When screens sneak into our days, it’s rarely because we planned it. It happens in tiny moments. The waiting, transitioning, filling space, calming chaos.
 
In this episode, we focus on intentional screen-free connection moments: the small, repeatable choices that quietly replace screen use and strengthen family connection at the same time. You’ll learn where screens usually take over, what to offer instead, and how to build screen-free habits that actually stick, without power struggles or guilt.
 
If you want less screen time and more real connection, this episode shows you where to start.

What If Curiosity Led the Way? Raising Imaginative and Thoughtful Kids

What if curiosity could change the way your child sees the world?
In this episode, I’m joined by Erika James, author of What If You Dare the Dandelions to Sing, for a thoughtful conversation about cultivating curiosity, wonder, and imagination in children... especially in a world filled with distractions and screens. We explore how curiosity fuels creativity, confidence, and deeper connection, and how parents can intentionally nurture it through everyday moments, meaningful questions, and screen-free experiences.
Erika shares the inspiration behind her book and how poetic storytelling invites children (and adults) to slow down, notice the world around them, and see possibility where others might not. If you’re looking for ways to raise curious, thoughtful kids and create more meaningful, screen-free moments at home, this episode will leave you inspired and hopeful.
📘 Learn more about Erika James and her book, What If You Dare the Dandelions to Sing @byerikajames on Instagram or visit her website at www.byerikajames.com

5 Signs Your Child Needs a Screen Break & What To Do About It

Screens aren’t the enemy, but sometimes your child’s body and brain are quietly asking for a break. In this episode, we’ll explore five clear signs your child may be overstimulated by screens, why those signs show up, and exactly what to do instead of just taking devices away. This is about balance, regulation, and offering screen-free replacements that actually work.

Holiday Screen Balance Without the Drama

The holidays bring magic and meltdowns. In this episode, we’re talking about how to create a healthy screen balance during the holidays without constant negotiations, guilt, or power struggles. You’ll learn why holiday screen struggles feel more intense, how to set expectations that actually work, and what to offer instead so your kids stay engaged, regulated, and connected even when routines disappear.

Making Storytime Matter: Screen-Free Reading Strategies with Word Play Speech

In this episode, we sit down with Ali Manahan, founder of Word Play Speech, to explore practical strategies for making storytime engaging, interactive, and screen-free. Families will learn how to turn everyday reading into moments of connection, creativity, and curiosity — all while supporting children’s language and cognitive development.
We dive into:
Why screen-free storytime matters for children’s growth and family connection
Creative ways to make books come alive and spark curiosity
Strategies for problem-solving common storytime challenges, like short attention spans or distracted kids
How to help children develop critical thinking and communication skills through interactive reading
Tips for parents to create meaningful, fun, and teachable moments at home
If you’re a parent looking to make storytime more than just reading words on a page and want practical, screen-free ways to boost engagement, curiosity, and family connection — this episode is packed with actionable insights.
You can find Ali and Word Play Speech Therapy at: https://wordplayspeechtherapy.com or on socials @word.play.speech.therapy

Unlocking Screen‑Free Play: Inside TumbleTales’ Interactive Audio Stories

In this episode, we talk with Andrew Rossi, the creator of TumbleTales, a unique platform that offers bite‑sized interactive audio adventures for kids designed to inspire movement, imagination, and screen‑free play. We dive into why audio stories can be a powerful alternative to screen time, how TumbleTales fosters active listening and physical engagement, and simple ways families can incorporate these adventures into their daily routines.
You’ll learn:
What makes TumbleTales different from traditional kids’ podcasts and audiobooks
Why audio adventures can support creativity and active play without screens
Realistic ways for parents to integrate audio stories into busy schedules
How TumbleTales is building a more imaginative, screen-free world one episode at a time
Andrew’s vision for the future and tips for getting started with your family
If you're looking for screen‑free entertainment that encourages imagination, movement, and connection... this is the episode for you. Tune in, press play, and let your kids’ imaginations run wild.
 
You can find TumbleTales on any podcast provider and Yoto. You can also find them on socials @TumbleTalesStudios

Adventure Starts Here: Making Outdoor Time Easy, Fun, and Doable

What if adventure didn’t require plane tickets, packed itineraries, or elaborate planning, just curiosity, courage, and stepping outside your front door? In this episode, I’m joined by Debbie Bamsey, founder of the Adventure Buddy, to explore what “adventure” really means for families today. Spoiler: it’s simpler, more accessible, and more transformative than you think.
Debbie shares how Adventure Buddy inspires families to explore the outdoors with confidence, creativity, and a spirit of connection. We talk about why getting outside matters now more than ever, how small adventures can build resilience and joy, and why kids crave real-world experiences far more than perfectly polished screen time.
Together, we unpack:• Why outdoor time is a natural antidote to screen-heavy days• How families can start adventuring without big budgets or big plans• Simple ways to build a mindset of exploration into everyday life• What happens when parents loosen expectations and let curiosity lead• How Adventure Buddy empowers families to rediscover wonder, courage, and connection
Whether you’re already an outdoorsy family or you’re just hoping to spend a little more time in fresh air, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to choose your next adventure.
Tune in, take a breath of fresh air, and let’s step beyond the screen together.
You can find the Adventure Buddy at:
www.theadventurebuddy.com
@the.adventure.buddy on socials

Connection Rituals You Can Start This Week

Connection doesn’t happen by accident, it grows from intentional rituals. In this episode, we’ll explore five simple, practical connection rituals you can start this week, why they work, and how even a few minutes a day can strengthen your family bond. Plus, hear about our new Play Box release which is packed with screen-free activities that spark curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Everyday Connection at Home: Play, Micro-Moments & Less Screen Time

In this episode of Beyond the Screen: The Family Connection Podcast, we chat with Claire, founder of Connection Made Simple — about screen-free play, meaningful family connection, and turning everyday moments into powerful bonding opportunities.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for creative, no-tech play ideas, ways to reduce screen time, and simple strategies to strengthen connection with your kids, this episode is for you. Highlights include:
Why micro-moments of play matter more than big scheduled “activities”
How to repurpose items around the house into meaningful connection games
Practical tips for creating intentional, playful family time without screens
How to shift from passive screen use to active family connection
Don’t forget to subscribe to Beyond the Screen: The Family Connection Podcast for more empowering conversations on screen balance, family play, and connection.