Andrew and Caroline start this episode the same way many parents start a “normal” day: northern lights, a bank visit that ate two hours, and a reminder that adulting is its own full-time job. Then they try something parents are doing more and more—asking AI for parenting advice.

They put a “nice British voice” to the test on real-life sticking points: kids refusing chores, screen-time blowups, bedtime anxiety, and the constant tug-of-war between boundaries and burnout. The advice isn’t wild… but the tone is the story. Why does AI feel so comforting? When does reassurance turn into a crutch? And what happens when “helpful” starts replacing your village?

If you’ve ever Googled a parenting question at 2 a.m., this one will hit. Expect laughs, some blunt truth about consistency, and a practical way to use AI without handing it the keys to your home.

“Homework” ideas!

Homework 1: Pick one non-negotiable and make it boring

• Choose one daily expectation (dishes in sink, teeth brushed, screen off at X).
• Say it once, neutrally.
• Follow through with a consequence you’ll actually do (pause screens, delay dessert, Wi-Fi off).
  Resource: a one-sentence script you can print:
  “When ___ is done, then ___ happens.”

Homework 2: Build a screen-time runway (no surprises)

• Give a two-step warning: “10 minutes” + “2 minutes.”
• Add a simple handoff action: “screen off → device charges here → we move.”
  Resource: set two phone alarms labeled “10” and “2,” or use a visible kitchen timer.

Homework 3: Write your “calm plan” for when you feel yourself boiling

• Pick a pattern interrupt you’ll use every time: step into hallway, cold water on wrists, 10-count down, slow exhale.
• Practice it once when you’re not mad, so it’s there when you are.
  Resource: a note on your phone lock screen: “Pause. Breathe out longer than you breathe in.”

Homework 4: Bedtime anxiety ladder (reduce reassurance over time)

• Keep routine steps in the same order nightly.
• Decide on a “stay time” (3 minutes), then shorten it every few nights.
• Use one consistent line at the door: “I’m nearby. You can do this.”
  Resource: a simple bedtime checklist your child can tick off (paper on the wall works great).

Homework 5: Use AI without letting it “parent for you”

Try a prompt that forces clarity and reduces the cheerleading:

• “Give me 3 options for handling screen-off meltdowns for a child aged __. Include exact words to say, one consequence I can enforce, and what not to do. Keep it short. No pep talk.”

Resource: save that prompt as a note called “Parenting Prompt” so you don’t spiral-scroll when you’re stressed.

Bonus Homework (from the bank + Manulife moment): Make a 30-minute “family admin” file

• One page: mortgage info, insurance contact, school logins, emergency contacts.
• Put it in a folder labeled “If I get hit by a bus.”
  Resource: shared note app doc + one printed copy.

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