1 in 3 UK parents use AI for parenting advice and homework

Parents are turning to AI to discuss difficult topics with their children, a new study reveals.

New research reveals that parents are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with parenting decisions. The study found that nearly a third of parents with children under 18 would seek AI guidance when advising their children, and a further 33% would consider doing so.

The most common use of AI among parents is to help with homework (45%), followed by finding age-appropriate entertainment and literature (39%). Interestingly, up to 40% of parents turn to platforms like Copilot and ChatGPT when dealing with difficult topics such as bullying, bereavement, and relationships.

Additionally, 39% of the 5,000 parents surveyed said AI would help explain complex issues such as climate change and adolescence.

Harry Gove, spokesperson for OnePoll, which conducted the research for 72Point, which produced a white paper report exploring the age of AI, commented: “AI can be very helpful in finding answers to questions and solutions to problems very quickly, and for parents who are often exposed to a lot of questions and problems, this is a very easy stopgap solution.

“However, reliance on AI should really be limited to background checks. Parents should also consult professionals and seek help and support from friends and family if necessary.”

Many who have adopted this technology find it helpful in managing their family life. About 38% use it to create routines for bedtime and study sessions, and 35% manage their meals and nutrition.

Meanwhile, some admitted that they look to AI for guidance when trying to understand their child’s behavior, activities, and overall development.

A third (34%) of parents rely on artificial intelligence to track developmental milestones, while 33% use it to address behavioral changes and 29% even turn to bots when they want to support their child’s mental and emotional health.

However, 27% of parents surveyed said that even though technology is starting to gain acceptance in the home, more progress is needed in education.

Only 29% of children report being curious about and engaged with AI. Meanwhile, 15% of mothers and fathers said their children do not use these tools at all.

Harry added: “The world is changing, but there is still work to be done in terms of acceptance of AI and its capabilities, and in terms of the support that AI can actually provide.

“Parents using AI to support their parenting challenges should always check the source of that information and ideally access those sources for detailed context.”