This week: AI 101 for parents who hate tech-speak

👋 Hi there — and welcome to AI Parenting Guide!

The day I caught my 12-year-old using ChatGPT to write a “quick” book report was the day I realised: AI wasn’t coming — it had moved in.

Now I’m sharing the ride. Each week, you’ll get no-jargon tips, real-talk advice, and just enough tech know-how to stay one step ahead (or at least keep up at the dinner table).

🧠 AI 101: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn't just something from sci-fi movies anymore — it's already shaping how your child learns, plays, watches, and even talks.

But what exactly is AI? And why should you care as a parent?

🧠 So, what is AI?

AI (Artificial Intelligence) is when a computer or app learns from experience and uses that learning to make decisions or offer suggestions.

Think of it like a super-smart digital assistant that:

• Learns what your child likes

• Responds to their voice or questions

• Suggests content, games, or even homework help

It’s not “thinking” like a human — it’s just really good at spotting patterns.

📱 Where your kids are already using AI

You may not realise it, but AI is already baked into everyday tools your children use:

• YouTube & Netflix: When it recommends videos based on what they’ve watched — that’s AI.

• Voice assistants (Alexa, Siri, Google): They “understand” questions and give responses using AI.

• Smart toys: Some toys “learn” your child’s name or adapt how they respond over time.

• Homework helpers (like ChatGPT): Kids may ask AI questions to get explanations, solve maths problems, or even write stories.

• Games & apps: Many learning apps adjust difficulty levels automatically based on how well your child is doing.

⚠️ Why this matters for parents

AI can be incredibly useful — but it also raises concerns:

• Passive learning: Children may stop thinking critically if an app always gives them the answers.

• Endless screen time: Recommendation algorithms are designed to keep your child watching or playing, not to help them stop.

• Privacy risks: Some AI-powered tools collect data — including location, habits, and even voice recordings.

• Deepfakes & misinformation: As kids get older, they’ll need help spotting what’s real and what’s not.

The goal isn’t to ban AI — it’s to understand it well enough to guide your child through it.

🧩 What you can start doing today

Here’s how to take back control and make AI work for your family:

• Ask your child what apps or games feel "smart" — listen without judgment.

• Sit with them and explore how recommendation engines work (e.g. “Why do you think YouTube is showing this next?”).

• Limit autoplay and help them choose content instead of just watching whatever comes next.

• Start using parental controls — but don’t stop there. Talk about why they exist.

• Remind your child that not everything online is true — especially AI-generated content.

📚 Resource of the Week: The Art of Screen Time by Anya Kamenetz

Struggling to find the right balance between screens and real-life moments? The Art of Screen Time offers evidence-based, practical strategies to help your family navigate tech use without the guilt. Unlike heavier reads on digital citizenship, Kamenetz keeps it light and relatable, answering the big question: "How much tech is okay?" Perfect for parents who want a flexible, research-backed approach to raising kids in a digital world.

👉 Visit Anya’s website for more..

P.S. Want more? Reply to this email with your biggest screen-time challenge—we might feature tips in a future issue!