In this episode of Pixel Parenting, we dive into the critical early years of child development with Rebecca Walsh, founder of Early Childhood Matters. Rebecca shares how the first five years shape a child’s brain, why presence and connection are more powerful than we think, and how even small habits—like looking up from our phones—can make a big difference.

We talk about what “serve and return” really means, the science behind early brain development, and how modern parenting is being shaped by digital distractions. Plus, we explore how screen time affects kids under three, why boredom matters, and what happens when children lose opportunities for real-world connection and play.

Rebecca also shares practical strategies for building connection—even just 10 minutes a day—and offers tips on managing tech as a busy parent in today’s fast-paced world.

In this episode I’m excited to welcome Abby Vollmer—a legal and policy expert in the tech industry with a wealth of experience from GitHub, Strava, and now Cloudflare. In our conversation, Abby dives into her work at the intersection of technology, law, and child safety, exploring how tech policies shape everything from data management to community guidelines that protect our kids online. We discuss the evolving role of trust and safety teams in adapting to rapid technological change and the challenges lawmakers face in creating regulations that keep pace with innovation.

Throughout our discussion, Abby shares real-world examples from her career, illustrating how legal insights and clear policy design are crucial for building safer digital environments. She explains how companies navigate the complex web of international regulations and why many opt to implement the most stringent standards across the board. Together, we also explore practical tips for parents—like scrutinizing privacy settings and understanding community guidelines—so you can feel more empowered to guide your children through the digital world. Whether you’re a parent or just curious about how technology and law intersect to protect our kids, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice.

In this episode we explore the evolving role of AI in education through the eyes of Valentin, a tech-savvy seventh grader. Valentin recounts his early encounters with AI - starting with tools like DALL-E and ChatGPT - and how he now uses these technologies to overcome challenges such as dyslexia and ADHD. He explains how AI aids him in homework, streamlines group projects, and even sparks creative ideas for school assignments. While sharing his successes, Valentin also discusses the challenges of relying on AI, such as ensuring accuracy and the risk of misuse in academic settings. This open conversation offers a fresh perspective on integrating technology in learning, highlighting both the exciting opportunities and the responsibilities that come with embracing AI in the classroom and at home.