The introduction of AI to young children by parents and teachers: methods and rationale

sWith the introduction of ChatGpt in late 2022, generative artificial intelligence moved from adult users in office settings to college students in campus libraries and even teenagers in high school hallways. As the youngest among us start exploring AI technologies, parents and teachers are grappling with the responsibility of introducing children under 13 to these transformative tools. Though tools like Google’s Gemini and other AI models set age restrictions, many parents and teachers are taking it upon themselves to educate children about AI.

Inspired by stories of parents teaching their children AI skills to prepare them for success in school and beyond, we reached out to Guardian readers to learn how and why others are doing the same. While our original stories focused on parents, we also included responses from teachers, recognizing their role in preparing children for the future.

Some parents and teachers have embraced AI fully, integrating ChatGpt into everyday interactions with children, using it to explain concepts, answer questions, and share imaginative stories. Others approach AI cautiously, limiting its use to controlled settings due to the potential risks it may pose to young users.

On the other hand, some parents and teachers choose not to expose their children to AI at all, expressing concerns about potential harm and ethical implications that remain unresolved. While differing in their approaches, each perspective contributes valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue about AI education.

The responses below have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Parents Explain the World with AI’s Help

I’ve discovered that introducing AI to my children has been an unexpected joy of parenting. Instead of saying “Let’s google,” my 9 year old now asks, “Daddy, can you chat?” when he needs help with homework. He’s learning to seek guidance rather than just answers.

My 6 year old’s endless questions often test my patience. In those moments, AI comes to the rescue, keeping him engaged and imaginative with topics like dinosaurs and space. It’s a mental recharge for me.

With three daughters, we’ve moved from reading princess stories to creating our own imaginative adventures, thanks to AI.

– Matt, Consultant, 44, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

I use AI as an intellectual backup when I can’t answer my kids’ questions. We have AI voice assistants at home and in the car, helping us with random queries and homework tasks. It streamlines our discussions and keeps learning active. However, I caution my kids about the accuracy of AI responses, as they can sometimes be misleading.

– Graham, Writer, Lumberhurst Quarter

I incorporate AI tools into my daily interactions with my 3 year old, using them to explore nature and answer his questions about the world. I encourage his curiosity and engagement while limiting screen time and passive activities.

While AI is a part of our routine, it’s not the sole focus.

– Nate, Data Scientist, East Bay, California.

I’m introducing my eldest to Openai’s ChatGpt, portraying it as a creative assistant for generating ideas and resources. I teach her to approach AI skeptically and not to rely solely on its responses.

– Ben, 47, Entrepreneur, Germany

To showcase AI to my children, I use ChatGPT to generate stories and engage them in critical thinking by analyzing the authenticity of AI-generated content.

I also encourage them to question misleading information and develop a healthy skepticism towards online content.

– David, Software Developer, Ireland

For students struggling with writing, I recommend using AI for sentence-level feedback and grammar explanations, but caution against relying on AI to create complete essays.

– Jenny, English and Drama Teacher, Valencia, Spain

In my household, AI is used sparingly, with the children understanding it as a tool to enhance their learning and curiosity. We emphasize the importance of personal effort and creativity in achieving success.

– Anton, Fintech Director, Geneva

Rather than introducing AI directly, I stimulate my students’ imagination by using AI tools like Adobe Firefly to inspire descriptive writing and Character.ai to bring historical figures to life. I emphasize the creative potential of AI while also highlighting its limitations.

– Angie, Primary Teacher, Tunbridge Wells

I approach AI education as a generative tool, emphasizing its role as an aid rather than a replacement for imagination. By demonstrating AI’s creative capabilities, students learn to use it responsibly while appreciating its limitations.

– Adam, 28, High School Teacher, Christchurch, New Zealand