For kids with access to digital devices and Internet connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI) is almost impossible to avoid. Generative AI is embedded in search results, social media feeds, video games, education technology, and even toys. In the United States, 91% of kids aged 13-17 use generative AI in their personal lives, and 72% have used AI companions.
Much of kids’ AI use happens outside of school. This places parents and caregivers in a crucial role: guiding kids to live well in an AI-driven world.
Many parents and caregivers don’t know where to start. They are overstretched, juggling multiple responsibilities, and often haven’t had the chance to understand what AI is, how it works, and how it affects their children. The parents Brookings interviewed for our study, “A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect,” shared how little support they receive in navigating this rapidly changing, AI-infused environment. Parents expressed both concerns about how to simultaneously protect and prepare their children in an AI world—and a desire for clear, practical guidance on how to approach their children’s AI use.
Brookings research also shows that while AI has the potential to support learning, it can also put kids’ development, safety, and autonomy at risk. Avoiding these risks requires empowering parents to help their kids manage AI use and strengthen the skills that AI can undermine.
In response to this need, we have created a series of tip sheets for parents of kids aged 10-14. This series focuses on 10 core skills kids need to become resilient learners in an AI-driven world. Each tip sheet offers bite-sized information about AI and its impact on kids, highlights what parents might notice as they observe AI use at home and school, and provides conversation starters and activities families can use together.
Tip sheets will be added on a rolling basis over the coming months.