Today’s children swipe before they write and ask Alexa questions before they can tie their shoes. So for them, AI isn’t a revolutionary shift but simply the next feature in their digital world. This generational divide is exactly why parental guidance matters more than ever: kids won’t naturally see AI as something to approach with caution. As parents, we may feel overwhelmed by how fast AI is advancing and unsure about how to guide our children when we are still learning ourselves. The good news? We do not have to be AI experts. What matters is helping our children become thoughtful, responsible technology users who know how to use AI as a tool, question it when needed, and make choices that reflect our family’s values.
Small, intentional actions can build confidence for both parents and kids. Here are some simple ways to get started.
1. Model healthy curiosity about AI
One of the most powerful things we can do as parents is show that it is okay not to have all the answers. AI tools can seem smart, but they do not always get it right. When we use AI in front of our kids, we can let them hear us think aloud:
- “Where do you think this answer came from?”
- “Is this suggestion fair, or could it be missing something important?”
- “What would we want to double-check before we use this information?”
During a family trip, we used a chatbot to suggest local attractions. I showed my kids how we cross-checked the recommendations with official websites and reviews. Moments like these help kids see AI as a helper, not an authority.
This reinforces that our family values curiosity, integrity, and thoughtful decision-making.
2. Develop critical thinking skills about AI
AI tools can feel easy and familiar, which makes it important to pause and help kids see that they can have gaps or limitations. Parents do not need to have all the answers. What matters is sparking curiosity and showing kids that it is okay to ask questions and trust but verify the information AI provides.
- If AI suggests something that does not work for your family: “How could we check if that is the best choice for us?”
- If AI offers a suggestion that feels tailored: “Do you think everyone would get the same answer, or could it be different?”
- If you notice patterns in AI responses: “What patterns do you notice in how it answers us?”
These conversations help kids practice critical thinking. By keeping them simple and open, you show that your family values curiosity, integrity, and thoughtful decision-making.
3. Promote creative use of AI
It is easy for kids to fall into using AI for quick answers or entertainment. With our guidance, however, they can see it as a tool for building and exploring.
When we guide kids to be active creators with AI, we teach them to lead technology, not just follow it. Encourage projects where kids use AI to create something meaningful: design a comic strip or brainstorm a weekend project. Set clear guidelines about what’s appropriate to create and share. These activities help kids see AI as a starting point for their ideas. It can be as simple as asking, “What could we make with this tool instead of just seeing what it gives us?” This helps kids learn that technology should support their ideas, not replace their effort or creativity.
4. Tools and resources to explore together
The goal is not to master every tool, but to learn alongside your child and make choices that reflect your family’s values.
Here are safe, family-friendly categories to consider:
For brainstorming and learning:
- Use chatbots with parental supervision to generate story ideas, plan projects, or get homework help (but not to complete assignments)
- Always verify important information with trusted sources
- Create a family account rather than individual child accounts
For creative projects:
For family activities:
- Use AI to help plan meals, considering everyone’s preferences
- Generate ideas for weekend activities based on weather and interests
- Create fun family challenges like “improve this AI story” contests
Remember to establish ground rules: no personal information, no photos of family members, and always check with a parent before trying new AI tools.
The best way to prepare our kids for an AI world is to stay curious with them. When we explore, create, and question together, we show them how to approach the future with integrity and confidence. Start today: Choose one AI tool to explore with your child this week. Use our conversation starters to guide your discussion, and remember, the goal isn’t to become tech experts, but to raise thoughtful humans who can navigate technology wisely.
Stephanie LeBlanc-Godfrey is a tech executive, mom of three, and founder of Mother AI, a platform that helps parents integrate AI into family routines in practical, values-driven ways.