Childhood Unplugged: Scroll Less, Read More

Screens are everywhere – in our homes, schools, and pockets. Many parents and educators are asking the same question: How do we help children find balance in a digital world?

Join us for a conversation inspired by Katherine Johnson Martinko’s book Childhood Unplugged: Practical Advice to Get Kids Off Screens and Find Balance, which offers practical guidance for helping children spend less time on screens and more time reading, playing, and exploring the world around them.

This event will feature a keynote presentation by the author, followed by a panel discussion with local experts who will share insights, research, and realistic strategies to help families navigate screen use in today’s digital environment.

Expert panel featuring:

• Dr. Sheri Madigan, Professor in the Department of Psychology and Tier I Canada Research Chair in Child Mental Health and Well-being at the University of Calgary.

• Dr. Mengguo Jing, Assistant Professor in Learning Sciences with the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary.
• Sara Austin, Founder and CEO of Children First Canada.

Event Moderator: Dr. Susan Graham, Director of the Owerko Centre at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Scientific Director of the Azrieli Accelerator, and Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Calgary.

The first 200 guests through the door receive a free copy of Katherine Johnson Martinko's book.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, caregiver, or community member, together we’ll explore how small changes can help create a childhood that is richer in reading, creativity, and real-world connection.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Kids Literacy Collective