by Bethany Barton
Illustrations by the author
Viking
an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2026
40 pages
ISBN: 9780593693803
From the author of the I'm Trying To Love series of picture books.
Screens are fun and everywhere, but they are also dangerous. They can drain our energy and desensitize us to the things around us like cats, a summer rain, the breeze in the trees, even our best friends. Because the tablet, laptop or phone screen rewards us, our brains naturally want more of that feeling. The science behind it is dopamine, a brain chemical that gives us good feelings like joy and pleasure. However, like food, you must regulate your intake. Too much dopamine harms our brains. How do you handle how much dopamine you get? And why should you regulate it?
It's because dopamine overload can cause you to be angry, aggressive and tired. There is such a thing as "junk tech;" think of it as junk food for the brain. This is content that has no clear end or point to end, pop-ups, reels, "free" apps and games that you pay for not with money but with your attention.
The brain keeps us alive; it is precious and priceless, so take good care of yours. Learn to balance tech and screen time. Set alerts to remind you to take a break. Get up, go do something else you enjoy. Ride your bike, roller skate, play with your dog or take a water break. Drink a glass of water. Eat something healthy.
The most important sentence of this book is: "Most phones and tablets are designed for adult brains." Young brains need time to grow and learn before being bombarded by screens. Do yourself a favor and be kind to your brain.
Parents take note: a tablet is not a babysitter. Giving a young child a tablet is hurting their brain. Encourage playtime, board games, outdoor activites, play dates and field trips around your town or city.
For more information, check out http//:DopaMindKids.org/
Highly, highly recommended ages 4 and up.
