50 | Good vs. Bad Video Games: How to Help Teen Boys Build Healthy Habits with Screen Time
Hi Parents!
Do screen time battles leave you feeling frustrated, drained, or like you're constantly walking on eggshells around your teen? In today's digital world, navigating boundaries around video games, phones, and other screens can feel like a daily power struggle - especially when anxiety is in the mix.
In this episode, I’m joined by Scott Novis, a former Disney executive, tech entrepreneur, and father of three who’s spent years helping families create healthier digital habits. Together, we dive into how to set screen time boundaries without the daily meltdowns - and how to foster more connection and cooperation in the process.
More about Scott:
Scott Novis is a serial entrepreneur, author, and former Vice President at The Walt Disney Company with a background in engineering and game development. He’s the founder of GameTruck, the first-ever mobile video game party company, which has now served over 10 million guests across the U.S. Scott is also a passionate advocate for helping families find balance in a tech-driven world. Through his speaking, writing, and innovation, he helps parents and kids build more connected, intentional relationships with technology - without the yelling, nagging, or shutdowns.
Scott shares practical strategies that help teens transition off screens without explosions, explains what’s really happening in their brains when they lose themselves in a game, and how to avoid the all-too-common trap of punishments that backfire. We also explore how anxiety can show up around screen time and how parents can recognize when their teen is using screens to self-soothe - or avoid something deeper.
You’ll walk away from this episode with tools to create smoother routines, reduce conflict, and better understand your teen’s emotional needs when it comes to digital spaces. Scott's insights will help you shift from feeling powerless to empowered, and from reactive to proactive in your parenting.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
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