A significant shift is underway in British family life, as modern parents increasingly welcome artificial intelligence as a partner in their parenting journey. New research indicates that mums and dads are now open to using AI tools to help navigate the complex challenges of raising children.
The Digital Helping Hand
The study, which polled 5,000 adults, found that three in ten parents with children under 18 who use AI have already employed it to give advice to their children. A further 33 per cent have considered doing so. The most common application is for homework or school projects, with 45 per cent of parents utilising AI for this purpose.
Beyond academics, parents are seeking AI's assistance for more nuanced family matters. A striking 40 per cent reported they would look to platforms like Copilot or ChatGPT when needing to discuss sensitive issues such as bullying, grief, or relationships. Furthermore, 39 per cent find AI useful for explaining complex topics like climate change or puberty to their children.
Organising Family Life with AI
The integration of AI extends into the practical day-to-day management of the household. The report shows that only 37 per cent of parents using AI have not contemplated its use for parenting decisions. For those who have, it has become an organisational lifesaver.
38 per cent have used it to create routines for bedtimes and study sessions, while 35 per cent rely on it for planning meals and nutrition. AI is also being used to provide reassurance about a child's development, with 34 per cent checking developmental milestones, a third managing behavioural changes, and 29 per cent seeking support for their child's mental health and emotional wellbeing.
A Word of Caution from Experts
Harry Gove, a spokesperson for OnePoll which carried out the report for 72Point, offered a balanced perspective. He stated, "AI can be a real help to very quickly find answers to questions, or solutions to problems – and for parents who are often subject to lots of questions and problems, this can be a really easy quick fix."
However, he added a crucial caveat: "The reliance on AI should only really extend to background research – parents should also consult professionals when necessary, as well as seeking help and support from friends and family." He further advised parents to always verify the sources of AI-generated information.
Despite this technological embrace at home, 27 per cent of the parents polled believe more needs to be done to integrate AI within educational settings. The research also suggests a generational gap, with only 29 per cent of children described as curious about AI.
Top 13 ways modern parents are utilising AI:
- Helping with homework or school projects
- Talking about difficult topics (e.g., bullying, grief, relationships)
- Finding age-appropriate entertainment or books
- Explaining complex topics (e.g., AI, climate change, puberty)
- Creating routines (e.g., bedtime, study schedules)
- Managing screen time and digital habits
- Planning meals and nutrition for children
- Navigating online safety and social media use
- Understanding developmental milestones
- Managing behavioural challenges
- Choosing extracurricular activities or hobbies
- Deciding on education paths or school choices
- Supporting children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing
