AI isn’t just helping your kids with homework - it’s shaping who they trust, how they think, and what they feel.

In this eye-opening conversation, Dr Justin Coulson sits down with Chris McKenna from Protect Young Eyes to unpack what most parents are missing about screens, social media, and the explosive rise of AI.

This isn’t about screen time. It’s about attachment, influence, and a digital world that’s moving faster than families can keep up.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, outpaced, or unsure what actually matters anymore - this episode will change how you parent in a tech-saturated world.

KEY POINTS

Why focusing on “screen time” is distracting parents from bigger risks
The hidden shift from attention to emotional attachment in AI
How chatbots are designed to pull kids back in - and keep them there
Why government restrictions aren’t enough to keep kids safe
The real reason screen battles keep happening at home
The two strategies every parent must balance: relational vs technical
How building “digital trust” reduces conflict and increases influence
Why modelling your own tech habits matters more than rules

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Social media came for their attention. AI is coming for their affection.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Protect Young Eyes
Five Habits of a Tech-Ready Family by Chris McKenna
Jonathan Haidt’s After Babel blog

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

Shift your focus from screen time to what your child is experiencing and who they’re connecting with
Start proactive conversations about AI - don’t wait until there’s a problem
Build digital trust through regular, calm, curiosity-led chats
Reduce unnecessary devices and access points in your home
Clearly define boundaries - and the path to earning more freedom
Model healthy tech use consistently (they’re watching more than listening)
Balance technical controls (filters, limits) with relational connection

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