My child is using AI a lot. Should I be worried?

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday life for children and teens. Many students now use AI tools like ChatGPT for homework, studying, writing, and answering questions, while others are encountering AI through social media, chatbots, and virtual companions. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Arnold talks with Dr. Michael Rich, director of the Digital Wellness Lab and the Clinic for Interactive Media and Internet Disorders, about how kids are using AI, the benefits and risks of these technologies, and how parents can help children use AI safely and responsibly.

In this episode, you'll learn:

· What is artificial intelligence, and how does it work?

· How are kids and teens using AI in their everyday lives?

· How can parents help children use AI without losing critical thinking skills?

· Can AI provide inaccurate information?

· How can families teach kids to fact-check AI-generated content?

· What are AI companions, and why are some experts concerned about them?

· Can AI affect a child's development?

· Could AI make it harder for kids to develop problem-solving and coping skills?

· Can using AI affect creativity, learning, or problem-solving skills?

· When should parents be concerned about their child's AI use?

· How can parents talk with their children about AI in a productive way?

· What are deepfakes, and how can they impact children and teens?

· How can parents help kids recognize misinformation, disinformation, and manipulated content online?

· How are schools responding to AI in the classroom?

· How can families create healthy expectations around AI and technology use?

AI is not going away, and experts agree that fear isn't the answer. Instead, this episode explores how parents can help children become thoughtful, responsible users of AI while continuing to develop the creativity, judgment, critical thinking, and human connections they need to thrive. Families will come away with practical strategies for navigating AI together and helping kids use these powerful tools in ways that support learning and growth.