AlphaBites Podcast: Unplugged Early Years Pencils Before iPads
- Mienna Jones
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
In this enlightening conversation, Mienna Jones & Karen Snook co-founders of Unplugged Early Years discuss the importance of preserving childhood in an increasingly tech-driven world.
They share personal experiences and insights on how technology impacts child development, the significance of family time, and practical tips for parents to foster a more present and engaged parenting style.
The discussion emphasises the need for balance between technology use and real-life interactions, advocating for a return to play and creativity in children's lives.
Unplugged Early Years - Why This Matters.
Unplugged Early Years is a nationwide movement driven through local communities raising awareness of the hidden harms of screen time in the early years from birth to five.
We’re living through a defining moment in childhood.
Technology is evolving faster than ever - AI-powered devices are entering homes, capable of holding conversations, mimicking emotions, and generating realistic text, video, and sound.
While there is potential for good, this rapid shift is transforming how children interact with the world.
Much like the arrival of smartphones over a decade ago, we’re at another turning point. Back then, the change was fast and many parents were left unprepared for the lasting impact of social media on mental health, relationships, and childhood itself.
We believe we cannot afford to make the same mistake twice.
Co-Founders Mienna, Karen & Ruby

Takeaways
Mienna reflects on her childhood as happy, adventurous, and free.
The importance of preserving childhood and allowing children to play.
Tech is affecting children's ability to engage in real-life interactions.
Family meals should be sacred, free from tech distractions.
Parents need to model healthy tech use for their children.
Simple activities can replace screen time and encourage creativity.
Children's gross motor skills are suffering due to excessive screen time.
Human connection is vital for child development and emotional health.
Parents should be conscious of their own tech habits around children.
Advocating for change in how tech is integrated into childhood.
Titles
Reclaiming Childhood in a Tech World
The Unplugged Approach to Parenting
Sound Bites
"We need to make family meals sacred."
"It's about educating the adults too."
"Education is key."
Chapters
00:00 Childhood Reflections: Freedom and Loneliness
02:36 The Birth of Unplugged Early: A Passion for Childhood
05:26 Navigating Technology: Balancing Screen Time for Kids
08:25 Creating Sacred Family Time: The Importance of Presence
11:11 The Role of Parents: Modelling Healthy Tech Use
13:58 Engaging Alternatives: Simple Activities to Replace Screen Time
16:54 The Importance of Play: Encouraging Creativity and Interaction
19:45 Building Connections: The Impact of Human Interaction
22:41 The Future of Childhood: Advocating for Change in Tech Use
Email to book a free, 15 minute discovery call hello@miennajones.com
Let’s change the story. For you. For your team. For the children.
Mienna Jones, Championing Childhood
📞 Call us: 07359 380484
📧 Email us: hello@miennajones.com
🌐 Visit: www.miennajones.com
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