We’ve all heard that artificial intelligence is shaping the future—but what are we doing today to prepare the next generation to live, work, and thrive in a world where AI is part of daily life?
From voice assistants to personalized learning apps, AI is no longer something only tech experts talk about. It’s embedded in how kids learn, interact, and even form opinions. As classrooms and social spaces go increasingly digital, the question for parents becomes not whether their children will use AI—but how they’ll use it.
“The world is transitioning into an online-first reality, where AI shapes everything from the information we consume to the decisions we make,” says Linsey Lunny, CEO of Hidden Strength, a digital mental health platform for young people. “As parents, it’s no longer just about teaching kids how to use technology—it’s about guiding them to understand it.”
That means teaching children more than how to swipe and search. It’s about helping them develop digital instincts—questioning sources, recognizing AI-generated content, spotting bias, and understanding how algorithms shape what they see and believe.
AI isn’t inherently good or bad. Like any tool, its impact depends on how it’s used. For parents, that starts with open conversations about what AI is and how it works. It means asking questions alongside their children: Who made this content? Is it based on facts or predictions? What’s missing? How does this tool know what I like?
“Just as we teach children to look both ways before crossing the street, we must teach them to navigate AI with caution and awareness,” Lunny adds. “That means protecting their digital footprint, helping them discern fact from fiction, and ensuring they don’t fall victim to the darker corners of the internet. Responsible AI use starts at home—with open conversations, critical thinking, and a commitment to keeping our children both informed and safe.”
It also means modeling responsible behavior—limiting screen time, reading the fine print on apps, and staying involved in what kids are using and watching. For many parents, that might mean learning alongside their children. After all, today’s AI is changing fast, and understanding it isn’t always intuitive.
“Teaching kids about AI should be approached with curiosity, not fear,” Lunny says. “Encourage them to ask how AI works, challenge what they see online, and think critically about the information they consume. Set digital boundaries, explore AI tools together, and remind them: AI is a tool, not a truth.”
As AI becomes more powerful, the goal isn’t to keep children away from it—it’s to empower them to use it wisely. That means encouraging creativity, not just consumption. Whether it’s experimenting with AI art generators, coding simple bots, or debating ethical dilemmas sparked by AI, the focus should be on fostering curiosity and understanding, not compliance.
Importantly, kids also need help managing the emotional side of tech use. AI-driven platforms can amplify insecurities, spread misinformation, and even manipulate behavior. That’s why trust and communication between parents and children is critical.
Lunny emphasizes that preparing kids for an AI-driven world isn’t about one “AI talk.” It’s about weaving responsible tech use into everyday parenting. “Whether it’s a video game using AI opponents, a chatbot offering advice, or an algorithm pushing certain content on social media, we need to teach our kids to think: Why is this here? Who benefits? And what can I learn from it?”
In the end, it’s not just about preparing children to use AI. It’s about preparing them to lead with thoughtfulness in a world where AI is everywhere.
With the right tools, guidance, and mindset, today’s kids can grow into tomorrow’s innovators—ones who use AI not just to get answers, but to ask better questions.
About Hidden Strength
Hidden Strength is a unique mental health platform for young people. They offer meaningful support, advice and guidance in a safe, anonymous environment. Support is both peer to peer, and in the form of fully qualified therapists available on demand using secure virtual environments.
