Episode 112: Play, Connect, Protect: Helping Kids Stay Safe Online with Sandrine Alexandre Hughes

In this episode of Parent Like a Psychologist, host Leanne Tran sits down with Sandrine Alexandre Hughes — part-time lawyer, mum of three, and creator of the online safety resources See Me Together Online and the card games All the Likes and Smoke, Mirrors & Filters. Together, they explore how parents can build their children’s digital resilience and online safety awareness through connection, conversation, and play. Sandrine shares how hearing tragic online stories before the pandemic inspired her to create practical, anxiety-free ways for families to discuss e-safety — long before issues arise. You’ll learn: Why games are a powerful tool for opening conversations about online behaviour and digital literacy. How to start early, keep talks age-appropriate, and “chat early, chat often.” How the card game All the Likes helps children aged 6–12 learn about kindness, privacy, and online boundaries. How Smoke, Mirrors & Filters sparks reflection and discussion among teens and adults about selfies, filters, and social media habits. Why e-safety is a shared responsibility between parents, schools, and society — and how connection offline supports wellbeing online. How families, including those with neurodivergent children, can use play to explore these important topics safely and meaningfully. Leanne and Sandrine also dive into Australia’s new social media legislation, the mixed responses from families, and what it means for helping kids stay connected in healthier, more mindful ways. Tune in for an uplifting and practical conversation that reminds us: The best way to protect kids online is to stay connected offline. Resources Mentioned Website: teamtogetheronline.com  Games: All the Likes (ages 6–12) & Smoke, Mirrors & Filters (ages 15+) Merch: “I’m Your Favorite Notification” caps & mugs Show Notes Email: [email protected]  Instagram: @teamtogetheronline.com  Website: www.teamtogetheronline.com  “I am Sandrine, a mother to three kids. I’m French and Australian, and a lawyer by profession — it turns out a lawyer can be a creative entrepreneur too! I started Team Together Online to say goodbye to parental anxiety around online safety and wellbeing. Why a card game? Because what’s better than play to relax, connect, practise skills, and, ultimately, learn? Team Together Online’s mission has now expanded to help all generations improve their online wellbeing. That’s why I created Smoke, Mirrors + Filters (15+ / Adults) — so you can have fun and deep conversations you never thought you’d have!” Listener Bonus Sandrine is offering Parent Like a Psychologist listeners an exclusive 20% discount on All the Likes with the code PARENTING at checkout. Valid for 7 days after the release of this episode (while stocks last). Shop now at: teamtogetheronline.com  Follow me on: Instagram:@leannetranpsychologyFacebook: @Leanne TranLinked In: @leannetranpsychologyEmail me: [email protected] my website: learn.leannetran.com.au