Raising Critical Thinkers in the Age of AI: Tips and Strategies for Parents

In today’s fast-moving digital world, parents face an urgent challenge: how to raise children who can think critically, question information, and navigate the growing influence of AI and social media.In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with John Krotec—educator, entrepreneur, U.S. Army veteran, and founder of Neo Masculinity Solutions—about why teaching kids how to think is more important than ever.Drawing from personal experience, leadership training, and his work developing AI-integrated learning tools, Krotec shares actionable insights for parents, including:Why today’s information overload makes critical thinking a must-have life skillHow to help kids distinguish fact from misinformation, disinformation, and AI-generated contentThe role of curiosity, courage, and questioning in raising independent thinkersPractical ways parents can guide children to use AI as a tool—not a shortcutEarly warning signs your child may be passively consuming informationThree simple habits parents can adopt to raise resilient, thoughtful kidsThis conversation offers into why parenting in the digital age isn’t just about protection—it’s about preparation.Links referenced in this episode:neomasculinity.solutionsCompanies mentioned in this episode:Neo Masculinity SolutionsThis podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com