The Ugly Truths of Smartphones
Live with Ambassadors of Unplugged Canada
Join ICP Co-Founder, Tania Johnson as she speaks with Ambassadors with Unplugged Canada- who's mission it is to unplug smart phones, rekindle real-life connections, and guide our children towards a life filled with the warmth of human relationships and the beauty of the natural world.
Ambassadors, Dr. Grace Yu, Kristen Sweet, and Josette Calleja will be joining us to speak about a few case studies that show real life stories of the dangers. They will also share how their practice has changed in recent years due to the overuse of technology and social media.
In addition, we will talk about Unplugged Canada, and how an online pledge can shift the culture from a phone-based childhood back to one of connection to the real world and each other.
Don't miss out on this incredibly important topic, join us on January 30th as we speak with Unplugged Canada Ambassadors LIVE!
Dr. Grace Yu-
Born and raised in Montreal. I completed my Medical Degree at McGill University. I moved to Vancouver for my Pediatric Residency training at BC Children’s and Women’s Hospital.
I have been helping to care for pediatric patients through the Sheway Clinic, in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside for the last 20 years. I provided outreach services to the communities of Bella Coola for 15 years and Mount Currie for 4 years. I enjoy teaching pediatric and family medicine residents, and medical students at the hospital. I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in the UBC Department of Pediatrics. I have been the recipient of awards for Family Centered Care and Community Pediatrician of the Year from the UBC Department of the Pediatrics. I was a member of the Pediatric Residency Training Committee for over 10 years and was Assistant Program Director for the Pediatric Residents for one year.
Kristen Sweet-
A mother of two young children and a teacher. I have a master’s degree in elementary education along with undergraduate degrees in education and psychology. In the past 16 years that I have spent in the classroom, I have become increasingly concerned with how smartphones and social media are changing the essence of childhood.
I witness children, for example, as young as eight years old, walking home from school, scrolling on their smartphones. I think of the nuances of daily life that they are missing. The squirrel running across a branch, the bird chirping happily in the background, the other eight year old walking across the street who glances over – a potential new friend, unnoticed.
Josette Calleja-
A parent coach, a passionate executive, and wellness specialist. I am a strong supporter of Unplugged because I believe our children need a childhood filled with meaningful connections, outdoor adventures and genuine interactions. The things a cell phone cannot provide. In my practise, I often see children become so absorbed in screens, potentially hindering their development and connection to the world around them.
Research shows that spending time outdoors and engaging in real-world interactions significantly contributes to a child’s wellbeing, self esteem and overall development. Keeping our kids off the phone at this critical age will provide the opportunity to connect with nature, nurture their curiosity and build authentic relationships offline.
Research shows that spending time outdoors and engaging in real-world interactions significantly contributes to a child’s wellbeing, self esteem and overall development. Keeping our kids off the phone at this critical age will provide the opportunity to connect with nature, nurture their curiosity and build authentic relationships offline.