WASHINGTON (WPRI) — As technology gets more advanced, parents are finding it increasingly difficult to protect children from the dangers of social media. That's why Brown University organized a conference in Washington D.C. on Thursday, focusing on the relationship between social media and mental health in children. Dr. Caroline Kistin with Brown University's School of Public Health spoke with 12 News about the event. She says parents were able to speak with researchers and policymakers about the struggles of raising children in the digital age. Kistin said they discussed how much time kids spend on social media.  "A respectful way to start a conversation with teens [is] recognizing that they may have many interests, but their time is valuable," Dr. Kistin explained. "Thinking in general how much of your time is being online taking and can we balance that with in-person opportunities."  Kistin said many of the issues with social media are not black and white. While many families resort to taking the phone away, that doesn't necessarily get to the heart of the issue. She says families should focus on finding time for parents and children to connect without phone use.  Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW