Generative AI is already shaping the world kids are growing up in. It's in their classrooms, their social feeds, and the tools they use every day. But because this disruptive technology has been deployed so quickly and widely, most of us are missing a roadmap on how to think and talk about these issues with our kids.
This non-technical conversation guide is designed to help caregivers of preteens and teens start that dialogue. Written from the point of view of a researcher, a tech policy professional, and, most importantly, a parent, the guide urges readers to be "AI conscientious" and to think critically about how AI affects their lives and the world around them.
What's Inside
The conversation guide is organized around a series of statements about AI meant to spark discussion and critical thinking. Sample topics include:
- Why AI isn't neutral, even when it seems objective
- How AI can get things wrong and why that matters
- What it means to "own" something you made with AI's help
- How AI is designed to keep your attention--and why that can be a problem
- What your data is really worth to the companies behind "free" AI tools
- Why being human still matters in an age of AI
The guide includes reading material for you and your kids, key takeaways, discussion questions, and further resources for those who want to dig deeper.
Join the Conversation!
We know this guide doesn’t cover everything. What conversations about AI are you having with young people that we didn’t address? How are you adapting these activities to spark meaningful discussions at home? Share your experiences, activities, or suggestions with us at cyber@pitt.edu.
About the Author
Elise Silva is the Director of Policy Research at Pitt Cyber, where she studies information ecosystems and conducts tech policy-related research. She is also the parent of a pre-teen.
Contact
Have questions about the guide or want to bring this conversation to your school, organization, or community? Contact cyber@pitt.edu
This guide is part of Pitt Cyber's Digital Survival Skills Initiative
What I Want My Kids to Know About AI is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC 4.0)