Helping families understand the importance of connection
Miriam McCaleb, PhD, is a researcher, writer and teacher, and a global leader and expert on the impacts of technology on early parenting and infant development.
Her background working with children and families extends more than 30 years, and includes infant care, innovative research, and international advocacy. Her career has involved kindergarten teaching, university lecturing, and a lot of play. She is the mother of two great girls and an auntie to many.
Dr. Mim’s award-winning research has focused on parental use of smartphones, the concept known as ‘technoference’, and how to uplift an infant’s relationships in a world that longs to distract their parents.
As a speaker, she is upbeat but honest; genuine and spirited. She has worked with a vast range of audiences and the most common feedback is a request for more.
Forget the opinions, listen to an expert.
Miriam believes that relationships and play are the most important things in the world. OK, that and vegetables.
Published Articles
What is “technoference”?
Technoference is the interference of technology into in-person relationships. It’s the name researchers often give to that feeling when your connection with someone in the room is interrupted by the distracting, shiny smartphone in their hand. Eyes – no longer on you, but instead on a device. Attention: gone. You know the feeling. It’s unpleasant for anyone to be on the other side of that imbalance.
For babies, whose connection to their significant adults can help them feel safe enough to learn and grow optimally, it’s not just unpleasant, but has real potential for harm. Tiny babies need hours and hours (and hours!) of real life face time to get their brains primed for a lifetime.
The Family Companion
