How kids can use AI without letting it think for them

Before: ask for their idea

Before opening a chatbot, ask: “What do you already think?” A guess, sketch, or half-formed plan is enough. That gives the child something of their own to compare with AI’s response.

During: give AI a job

Try “Give me two ways to start” or “Point out a possible mistake” instead of “Do it for me.” The child can ask for a simpler explanation or an example without handing over every choice.

1. Name what the child wants to learn or make.
2. Ask AI for help with one part.
3. Pause when the answer introduces a new claim or recommendation.

After: choose what stays

Ask: “Which part would you keep? What would you change? How could we check?” Sometimes the right choice is to close the chat and try something in the real world. For decisions that affect someone else, include that person’s needs and ask a trusted grown-up when needed.