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:

1. Why today’s information overload makes critical thinking a must-have life skill
2. How to help kids distinguish fact from misinformation, disinformation, and AI-generated content
3. The role of curiosity, courage, and questioning in raising independent thinkers
4. Practical ways parents can guide children to use AI as a tool—not a shortcut
5. Early warning signs your child may be passively consuming information
6. Three simple habits parents can adopt to raise resilient, thoughtful kids

This conversation offers into why parenting in the digital age isn’t just about protection—it’s about preparation.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. neomasculinity.solutions

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Neo Masculinity Solutions

This 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:

1. whereparentstalk.com