Don't ban AI, set boundaries

Children are using AI to solve tough homework problems. Rather than banning it, parents should set clear rules around how kids use it and what they share.

“A few simple rules at home can help children get the benefits without undermining their learning or landing themselves in trouble at school.”

Check your school's AI policy

Schools have different rules about AI use. What's allowed for revision might not be acceptable for homework or assessed work.

AI should help thinking, not replace it

Ask your child to explain how they reached their answer and what they asked the chatbot. They could try proving AI wrong or using it to challenge their own arguments.

Keep AI chat histories

If homework looks different from usual, saved AI conversations show how a child reached their answer. AI detectors aren't reliable, but chat logs provide a clearer picture.

Close the laptop and explain it

This is the most important rule. Ask your child to close the screen and explain the main idea in their own words to check if they truly understand.

AI can confidently get things wrong

AI produces incorrect information including invented quotes, calculation errors and faulty explanations. Children must check facts against textbooks and reliable sources.

Never share personal information

Children shouldn't enter names, school details, teachers' information, or family circumstances into AI unless parents have checked the tool and understand what happens to the data.

The ultimate AI homework test

Can your child put the technology away and explain the answer, defend their reasoning, and apply what they learned to another question? That shows AI supported learning, not replaced it.