In this episode of Parent Tech, I sit down with Al Nowatzki, a generative AI QA lead, to discuss the impact of AI and AI companions on children and parenting. We also take a trip down memory lane, discussing Al's experience hosting a Star Wars podcast with his kids, which helped spark discussions about real-world issues through fiction.

We discuss AI companions among teens, with Al emphasizing the need for parents to be proactive and informed about the technology. If you’re thinking about your child’s interactions with AI companions, this episode will give you some strategies to help navigate the topic.

Some of the studies referenced:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/research/report/talk-trust-and-trade-offs_2025_web.pdf
https://www.internetmatters.org/hub/press-release/new-report-reveals-how-risky-and-unchecked-ai-chatbots-are-the-new-go-to-for-millions-of-children/

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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:39 Children of the Force Podcast Journey

07:14 Generative AI and Kids' Relationships

10:18 Parental Guidance in the Age of AI

14:19 Potential and Risks of AI Companions

18:26 Introduction to Parasol Cooperative

18:44 The Role of Ruth the Chatbot

20:28 AI Safety and Ethical Considerations

21:07 Generative AI and Children

22:16 Parenting in the Digital Age

27:58 Explaining AI to Kids

36:24 Regulation

In this episode of Parent Tech, I sit down with Ash Brandin, IG: TheGamerEducator, and the author of the upcoming book “Power On.” We discuss practical strategies for managing screen time, the importance of creating systems and rules, and the ways screens can be effectively integrated into family life.

Ash shares insights from their background as an educator, outlining the 'ABCs of Screen Time' and how to balance access, behavior, and content. We also discuss the motivations behind gaming and how to approach both introducing and managing technology with kids. Whether you're wondering how to introduce your child to video games or you're concerned about screen time, Ash offers valuable, actionable advice.

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00:00 Introduction to Ash Brandin: Gamer Educator and Author

02:41 The Importance of Systems in Managing Screen Time

03:13 Unlearning and Reframing Screen Time

03:43 The ABCs of Screen Time: Access, Behavior, Content

04:25 Creating Effective Rules and Boundaries

06:52 Understanding Underlying Skills and Deficits

12:35 Smartphones and Digital Literacy

14:40 The Role of Video Games in Skill Development

23:36 The Impact of Free-to-Play Games

29:20 Parental Involvement in Gaming

32:43 Intentionality in Introducing Games to Kids

36:24 Balancing Gaming and Other Interests

38:42 Introducing and Managing Game Time

51:07 Wrapping Up: How to Find Ash Brandin and Their New Book

In this episode of Parent Tech, I talk with Dr. Susan Walker, Professor Emeritus of Family and Social Science at the University of Minnesota and the author of a textbook on technology and the family. We cover the historical context of parenting and how today's technology fits into a much longer story.

We explore how parenting is different today and the ways parents use technology. Dr. Walker offers a grounded, judgment-free perspective: parenting has always been about your values, your goals, and the tools you choose to use to support them.

Whether you're figuring out screen time, exploring tracking apps, or just trying to feel a little more confident—this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone, and there are methods to navigate through it.

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Dr. Walker’s textbook:

https://open.lib.umn.edu/technologyfamily/