Childcare scandals. Social media bans. Kids spending nine hours a day glued to screens. As Child Protection Week shines a spotlight on children’s safety, parents are asking: How do I really protect my kids — both online and in real life?

Dr Justin Coulson speaks with Dr Katrina Lines, CEO of Act for Kids, about shocking new research and simple ways families can protect kids online and in real life.

KEY POINTS:

• Why removing men from childcare is not the solution — and what really needs to change.
• Surprising new research: kids actually prefer time with family over screens.
• Why kids resist screen limits but thrive when they finally log off.
• How to “meet in the middle” by joining kids in their online world.
• Preparing your family for the upcoming social media age ban.
• Simple daily strategies to create real-life connection, even in busy households.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“This is the important stuff — not the cooking, not the laundry — but listening and being present with our kids.” — Dr Katrina Lines

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Act for Kids: Let’s Connect IRL
• Happy Families Resources

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Create small daily “connection moments” — in the car, over dinner, or while cooking.
2. Join your child occasionally in their online world to build trust and safety.
3. Open conversations now about the upcoming social media age ban — listen, don’t dismiss.
4. Plan one weekly family activity that everyone can look forward to.

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