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If you are a parent yourself, you know thats an understatement.
As a Xennial, Im among the micro-generation of people whove lived in both an analog and digital world.
I knew it was a matter of time before my oldest started usingAI.
It was inevitable, especially because I test AI for a living.
Im frequently discussingnew modelsand innovations at the dinner table.
So, when I caught my tween son using ChatGPT, what surprised me most washowhe was using it.
ChatGPT is the New Google
I discovered searches such as Can rabbits swim?
and How many Starburst candies would it take to reach the sun?
Hes very curious about the world around him and AI makes it easy to get those answers.
When I asked why, he shrugged and said, It just gives me the answer.
I dont have to click a bunch of links.
To him, ChatGPT isnt some revolutionary new technology.
Its just a better tool for finding stuff out.
Relief… and a little worry
On one hand, Im relieved.
On the other hand, I worry.
About forming habits where answers are always spoon-fed instead of explored.
About the lack of source attribution.
About the potential for overreliance.
But mostly, Im fascinated.
Because what Im witnessing isnt some dystopian future where kids are glued to AI robots.
Its something much more human: a curious kid asking questions.
Wanting to know more.
Using the tools available to him.
Tools I didnt have when I was his age.
This whole experience inspired me to create acustomized GPTjust for him one with more guardrails in place.
Introducing new AI tools
I also introduced my son toGoogles Learn Aboutplatform.
The tools may have changed, but curiosity hasnt.
These tools are here to say.
To help them ask better questions, to think critically about the answers, and to stay curious.
And that, to me, is kind of beautiful.
