Parents navigate AI’s role in kids’ learning - WWBT

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Parents are working to understand artificial intelligence and how it will affect their children’s future, according to experts who work with families.

Dr. Khilia Giacobone, director of children and families with Youth for Tomorrow, said AI is an increasing topic of conversation with the families she counsels.

Giacobone said students can use AI to get good grades, but that doesn’t mean they are learning the material. She said parents need to step in because skills that get glossed over when students rely on AI are skills children need for life.

She said asking AI to solve a problem can be efficient in the moment, but not knowing basic concepts will be a detriment later.

Giacobone said parents should constantly communicate with their kids about their schoolwork and discuss the learning process with them, helping children stay curious and think through problem-solving.

Giacobone also recommends looking for ways to teach kids resilience, since not everything should come easily and quickly. She said parents should help children learn through frustration and trial and error, and that those lessons can come from everyday tasks.

Giacobone said taking children grocery shopping can help with math and planning, including teaching kids to compare prices for items they want. She said that skill, especially as kids get older, is something a parent can teach even if AI cannot.

Asked about managing safety with AI, Giacobone said she recently asked a client what happens when AI gives wrong information, and the client responded that it doesn’t happen.

“And I’m like, they do. They can,” Giacobone said. She said AI responses reflect general advice that isn’t specific to a person’s situation, even if it feels that way. She said parents still need to monitor their households and stay aware of what’s going on with their kids.

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