What is AI?
A time ago people had created simple machines to make work easier such as wheels and pulley levers, but these machines didn't think, they only helped them do physical tasks effectively. Later on computers were invented where they could process information and follow instructions written by people, but still they could not think on their own for they only did what they were instructed. Scientists then started to develop a way that computers could analyze data, recognize patterns and make decisions without the need for step to step instructions for every task, and that is when they came up with Artificial intelligence{AI}. Artificial Intelligence (AI) therefore refers to the capability of machines to perform tasks that require human abilities and understanding.
Some common examples of AI that are part of everyday life are when social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and YouTube utilize utilize AI algorithms to make the user's experience more personalized and engaging. Other examples include the Google assistants, facial recognition commonly used in smartphones and chatbots like ChatGPT that uses natural language processing to create humanlike conversational dialogue. We also have AI chatbot assistant like Zuri from Safaricom for customer service interactions where it helps customers in addressing various concerns like subscribing and unsubscribing from chargeable SMS services.
How do children interact with AI?
Considering the above examples and the continuous advancements in technology, it is evident that AI has become a powerful presence in various facets of our society, including children’s lives. Children today interact with AI knowingly or unknowingly, and we cannot deny them the opportunity of accessing it. A report by common sense media indicates that 70% of teens (ages 13–18) have used generative AI tools. AI-supported search engines and chatbots are the most commonly used tools. However, Only 37% of parents whose teen has used AI are aware of it. Other different ways that kids interact with AI is through Google assistants where they can ask questions like “Hey google, how is the weather today?”, through YouTube AI enabled algorithm that recommends videos depending on users interests and facial recognition where they scan their face to unlock the smartphone.
What are the risks of AI to children?
Since children interact with AI, there are also risks that come with it, particularly in the absence of proper oversight. For instance, with YouTube AI algorithm, if a parent allows their child to access the platform without creating a child’s account, they risk exposing them to inappropriate content. Privacy concerns also arise as AI collects large amounts of data, exposing children to security threats. Additionally, AI can cause biases and stereotypes based on the information it learns, influencing children's perceptions. Cyberbullying and fraud are also major dangers, as AI can generate manipulated images, videos, or fake profiles that may be used maliciously. This was witnessed recently in Kenya during the anti-govt protests. How many people were able to detect that some of the images circulating through social media were AI generated?
This indicates that without proper guidance, children are vulnerable to these risks, highlighting the need for responsible AI use and monitoring. But why should we bother to ensure children are using AI responsibly. Why not keep it from them completely until they are adults?
It is very clear that keeping children from using AI is practically impossible and not beneficial. Consequently, as AI becomes more integrated into everyday experiences, it is crucial for parents to understand the undeniable benefits of AI to children.
Raising Future-Ready Kids: How AI Can Be a Powerful Tool
Nothing brings more relief to a parent than seeing their child thrive. However, success doesn’t happen by chance—it requires intentional preparation for the future. AI is proving to be a powerful tool in equipping children with the skills they need to succeed. Here are the benefits of AI that are key in shaping the future of children:
Personalized learning
In 1984, a professor {prof Benjamin Bloom} did research in the University of Chicago and discovered that learners who receive personalized instruction outperformed those in traditional classrooms. For example, an average learner with personalized learning surpassed 98% of their peers in the classroom. However, this was limited to only a few who could afford to pay tutors or only the brightest who attracted mentors.
AI is now emerging as a game changer because it is capable of scaling personalized learning to any learner. Studies suggest AI-driven personalized learning can improve student performance by up to 30% through tailored content and adaptive learning strategies. The traditional classroom has been treated as a one size fits all approach, although every child is unique in terms of understanding, grasping concepts, individual interests and specific strengths.
With AI, a moulded form of education can be created whereby it analyzes a child’s interaction with content and identifies areas of strengths and those that require attention. AI learning platforms evolve with the child where the lessons shift to individual needs and the learning curves to fit the individual’s pace and level of understanding. AI personalized learning makes each lesson engaging and tailored to the child's needs, and therefore this transforms reluctant learners into enthusiastic ones, fostering a love for education and boosting their confidence in their abilities. Through implementing AI-powered learning platforms, it is possible to track student progress, personalize lessons, and ensure every child learns at their own pace, maximizing engagement and outcomes.
Encourages creativity
AI does not make education obsolete or encourage laziness, as people think. On the contrary, it improves the child’s potential when used well. According to research, learners who engage with AI-assisted creative tools show over 30% increase in idea fluency and the ability to generate multiple unique ideas compared to those using traditional methods. AI tools like LensGo.ai inspire kids to open their imaginations by coming up with artwork. Through using these tools, Children improve their creativity by turning their own unclear and limitless ideas into something presentable.
With AI, creativity is enhanced through interacting with technology, therefore, simulating a partner that can match with their interests. AI helps children articulate abstract thoughts into structured expressions, fostering both creativity and communication skills. By integrating these tools into learning, educators and parents can nurture critical thinking, artistic expression, and digital literacy, preparing children for a future where human-AI collaboration is essential. It is important that we encourage children to use AI-powered creativity tools like LensGo.ai and DALL-E in classrooms and at home to nurture their creativity.
Teaches important skills
Soft skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking are defining characteristics to children that AI can't replace. According to the World Economic Forum, about 65% of children entering primary school today will work in jobs that currently do not exist, making these human-centered skills essential for future success.
AI-powered educational tools, such as Khanmigo are good at developing such skills. For instance, Khanmigo AI tutor asks thought-provoking questions, requiring learners to justify their reasoning instead of providing direct answers. Additionally, it engages with learners through a step-by-step guidance to solving problems instead of providing direct solutions.
The best way to ensure children acquire key skills is by encouraging the integration of such AI-driven learning tools in schools and at home to foster essential 21st-century skills. Encouraging hands-on engagement with AI-powered platforms can foster critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities among learners, leaving them prepared to handle challenges and take on opportunities in the future.
Makes learning more accessible
Every child deserves education, as unique as they are. An estimated 240 million children worldwide have disabilities, and many of them face significant barriers to education due to a lack of resources, trained teachers, and inclusive learning materials. Traditional education systems have often been inaccessible due to physical, sensory, and cognitive limitations, making it difficult for these learners to participate fully in classrooms.
Through AI, it is possible to break down learning barriers, especially to those with disabilities. AI-powered assistive technologies, such as text-to-speech (TTS) converts written information into audio to help those who struggle with reading. Additionally, many AI tutors come with multilingual capabilities, helping learners who struggle with English or need learning materials in their native languages.
Encouraging interest in STEM related fields
STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] are essential and lucrative fields within society today. However, many learners are not getting into these fields due to the gaps in teaching methodologies. The traditional methodologies are more focused on memorization, lacking practicals that are more crucial to understanding STEM. However, with the coming of AI, this is about to change for good.
Did you know when learners engage in experiential learning, reasoning development is boosted? A report by the U.S. Department of Education found that learners using AI-powered virtual labs show a 35% improvement in understanding STEM concepts compared to traditional learning methods, beacuse interactive simulations enhance engagement and retention.
Real transformation happens outside the traditional classroom, where knowledgeable education is developed through interest driven exploration and practicals. A key advantage is that this does not happen through memorization but true understanding where real world application is developed. Instead of the difficult equations and hard scientific concepts taught in the traditional classroom, children can experience real life concepts of STEM through interacting with AI. For example, through virtual labs where learners can perform experiments on physics, biology and chemistry. Such hands-on experience encourages curiosity and interest in the various STEM fields. The end results of using AI platforms makes the complex concept of STEM relatable and understandable.
If AI-driven virtual labs and simulations are integrated into STEM education, learners can have hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Schools and educators should adopt AI-based tools such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) platforms to make abstract STEM concepts more tangible and engaging. As a result, we will have more learners venturing into these STEM related fields, widening career options.
How can we ensure that children use AI responsibly?
Given the various benefits of AI to children, it is also essential for parents/guardians and other stakeholders to take an active role in ensuring that children are using AI responsibly. Here are some of the guidelines to help them use AI responsibly;
Engage in Conversations About AI: Initiate open discussions with children about AI—how they use it, what they know about it, and how it impacts their daily lives. By understanding their perspective, we can guide them in using AI more responsibly while fostering a healthy curiosity about its role in the society.
Teach Privacy Management: Help children understand how to manage their privacy online. Discuss how to control cookies, block unwanted ads, and limit the sharing of personal information on social media. Encourage them to be cautious with the data they share and to understand how it may be used or sold.
Experience AI Together: Spend time exploring AI tools alongside children, such as voice assistants or AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT. This will provide them with a better understanding of how these technologies work, how to navigate them safely, and what boundaries should be set.
Discuss Ethical Use: It is important to educate children on ethical behavior when using AI. Teach them the importance of creating original work and respecting the intellectual property of others. Help them understand that copying and pasting without permission is not only unethical but can also have legal consequences.