A Parent’s Guide to AI: How to Support Our Kids & Teens in Responsible Use

Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) have become topics of hot discussion as we see an increase in news articles, social media posts, and online warnings about the potential and pitfalls of this new technology. Generative AI in the form of ChatGPT has swept users by storm, and parents are surprised to learn that students are using ChatGPT to write essays, complete homework, explain math problems, and more. 

As parents and caregivers raising a new generation of digitally savvy users, the question remains: how can we best prepare our kids and teenagers to use AI responsibly?  How can we guide them to use new technology in ways that they will thrive online?   

AI can have an impact on mental health, can change the way we search for information online, can change the way we interact online, and more, but armed with the right strategies, parents and caregivers can support their children’s use of AI in a more interactive, safe, and engaging learning environment. 

Artificial Intelligence Has Been Around for More Than 60 Years

Despite the buzz that Chat GPT and other innovative AI are presenting in the media, artificial intelligence is not a novelty. Beginning in the 1950s, the term "artificial intelligence" was coined by computer scientist John McCarthy.  AI research continued, and we saw the development of natural language processing and robotics. 

Fast forward, and we now find AI applications being used in different fields, ranging from finance and entertainment to virtual assistants and autonomous vehicles. One thing is certain: AI has evolved over the years and will continue to be integrated into our daily lives. 

AI May Change the Way Kids and Teens Search for Information Online

AI is steadily changing the way we use computer technology and, inevitably, the way young people search for information online.  AI algorithms can provide personalized recommendations, and allow kids to use voice search and virtual assistants like Google Home, Amazon Echo, and Apple Pod to use natural language without typing or formulating a complicated research question. 

Children and teens can search for information in their native language or in another language, which can help with cultural awareness.  They can even request interactive learning experiences or hands-on educational experiences to make learning fun. 

AI Can Inherit Biases From the Data It Trains On

One of the unfortunate features of AI is that it can inherit bias from the data, from its programmers, and from its training materials.  The biases can affect children by contributing to educational disparities, reinforcement of stereotypes, and more.  Depending on the inputs, AI can spout outdated and irrelevant information. 

For example, if you ask Chat GPT to create the persona of a successful CEO, it will most likely generate an image of a mature, white male.  As we know, with television and movies, when children and young people are exposed to biased representations, this can lead them to develop negative self-perceptions.  The cascading effect is that children then have a limited understanding of their own potential and may continue to believe the clichés and falsehoods that they have been exposed to. 

Possible Impacts of AI on Kids’ and Teens’ Mental Health

Like any new technology, AI may have possible effects on kids’ and teens’ mental health. As fascinating as AI may be, it can lead to increased screen time and possibly problematic use linked to the overreliance on AI-based communication tools. This lack of in-person social interaction may lead to social isolation and loneliness, even though AI may still fulfill certain needs. 

There have already been reports of young people opting for AI boyfriends and girlfriends because of the 24-hour availability and perceived ‘compassion’ provided by AI. The media is reporting the rise of AI girlfriends who are getting better at mimicking human interaction but may also be feeding into stereotypes and other unhealthy beliefs.  

Tips To Help Parents Navigate This New Technology

We have spent a bit of time speaking about the concerns that parents and caregivers may have about artificial intelligence. Still, despite some of the concerns and challenges, we would be remiss not to provide some strategies and ideas for parents as they strive to reap the benefits of this technology. 

• Awareness:  Do your homework and dig into the phenomenon of AI and ChatGPT.  Ask questions, and play around with the technology yourself. Dare to ask some of those touchy or even dicey questions, to see the response that your children would see.
• Critical thinking: Encourage your child to pose questions about AI systems – who, what, where, when, why, and how to question the information provided by AI systems and double-check the veracity. 
• Discuss AI Ethics: Educate your kids and teens about issues like algorithmic bias and the ethical implications of AI so that they understand that not all of the AI outputs are impartial or 100% accurate.
• Open communication, encourage their questions, continued dialogue: Let your children know that you are there for them, and no matter how big or small, you are their ‘trusted person’ and they can trust you. (Trust you to listen, refrain from judgment, and offer unconditional support.)

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