Every feature starts with the research.
Plain-English summaries of what studies and health organizations actually found, including where the evidence is mixed and what critics say.
How we use research
We read the strongest sources we can find, like meta-analyses and guidance from pediatric and psychological associations, and we say how strong the evidence is. Many findings are associations, not proof of cause. When experts disagree, we show both sides.
The scienceSocial media and kids: what we knowThe honest state of the debate, and the points where experts agree.The scienceScreens and sleepBedtime devices are linked with about twice the odds of too little sleep.The sciencePhones at schoolBans alone showed mixed results; total daily use mattered more.The scienceLike countsWhy public likes turn sharing into a scoreboard, and what hiding them does.The scienceEndless scrollWhy OurDot’s feed has a bottom, and what the research says.The scienceGrandparents and familyClose grandparents are linked with better outcomes for both generations.The scienceFamily mealsLinked with better eating and confidence, with honest caveats.The scienceJournalingSmall but real benefits, and why privacy matters.The sciencePausing before postingA simple pause cut offensive posts by about 6% in a large trial.The scienceStrangers and known adultsMost online abuse comes from people kids know, so rules apply to every adult.The sciencePlaying togetherCo-play is linked with connection, and kids learn more with an adult.The scienceTeaching online safetySkills and practice beat scare tactics.The scienceKids’ data privacyWhat the law asks of kids’ apps, and how OurDot keeps data small.