How to Raise Digitally Safe Children Without Control

What this episode covers

In this episode of Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, Mike sits down with Jesse Liu, founder of Digital Parenting Coaching, to discuss one of the most urgent challenges facing modern families: raising children safely and responsibly in a digital world. Jesse shares how her background in cybersecurity—and the sudden shift to online learning during the pandemic—revealed serious gaps in how parents approach screen time, device access, and online safety. She explains why strict restrictions often backfire, leading to resistance, secrecy, and damaged relationships between parents and children. Instead reminded of focusing on building trust, setting realistic expectations, and creating shared agreements that children are capable of honoring. Jesse explains how internet addiction, misinformation, and harmful content can shape a child’s mindset, behaviors, and decision-making if critical thinking skills are not intentionally developed. The conversation also explores how children absorb online content without the life experience adults rely on to filter information. Jesse emphasizes teaching mindfulness, values-based decision-making, and discernment so children can recognize when content is not appropriate for them—even when parental controls fall short. This episode is valuable for parents, tech leaders, and executives balancing technology’s benefits with its risks at home. It demonstrates that digital parenting is not about control, but about connection, communication, and preparing children to navigate technology confidently and safely.

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