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AI, Teens & Tots: A Back-to-School Survival Guide for Parents Who Care

Written by Anouk Malavoy | Sep 8, 2025 5:25:36 PM


As kids head back to school, Anouk Malavoy, VP of Client Experience & Partnerships, explores how AI is quietly reshaping our homes, classrooms, and parenting—and why families need to stay informed and engaged.

AI & Back-to-School

As backpacks get zipped and lunchboxes packed, there’s a new kind of prep parents need to think about this school year—and it’s not just about pencils and permission slips. It’s about Artificial Intelligence.
 
This topic hits close to home. I’m a mom to three teenagers, each navigating their own digital world with curiosity, independence, and a touch of chaos. My colleague Heileen Arias is raising a bright-eyed 4-year-old who’s already asking questions that sound suspiciously like Alexa.
 
Between us, we span the full parenting spectrum—and we’re both passionate about helping families understand the tech that’s shaping our kids’ lives.

 

AI Is Already in Your Home (Even If You Didn’t Notice)

From Siri to Spotify, Netflix to homework apps, AI is everywhere.
 
In fact, 26% of teens aged 13-17 said they have already used ChatGPT for their homework, and most parents don’t even know it. That’s not a scare tactic—it’s a wake-up call.
 
AI isn’t just a tool. It’s a teacher, a companion, and sometimes, a risk. And as parents, we need to be the guides—not the blockers.  As Heileen and I did our own research we felt compelled to share the tips below with our clients as they will help establish safe boundaries and start the conversation.

 
 


The Risks Are Real—But So Are the Solutions

Here are the top four risks every parent should know:
  1. Privacy & Data Collection – Smart toys and apps often record data without us realizing.
  2. Digital Footprints – Kids leave traces online that can be used in harmful ways.
  3. Misinformation – AI doesn’t always tell the truth.
  4. Cyberbullying & Deepfakes – Tech can be misused to harass or deceive.
But don’t panic—awareness is power. With the right conversations and boundaries, we can protect our kids and help them thrive.

 

At-Home AI Safety Tips That Actually Work

Here are some simple, powerful ways to keep AI helpful—not harmful:
  • Try AI together first – Co-use builds trust.
  • Set clear limits – Know when and where AI is allowed.
  • Use parental controls – They’re there for a reason.
  • Talk about ethics – No cheating, no bullying.
  • Ask how they feel – Emotional check-ins matter.
And my favorite rule? AI should help kids think—not do the thinking for them.
 


AI in Education: Tools You Can Trust

Want to support your child’s learning safely? Try:
  • Khan Academy/Khanmigo – Personalized tutoring.
  • Duolingo – Adaptive language lessons.
  • Dreambox – Math practice tailored to your child.
  • Grammarly – Writing feedback and corrections.
These tools use AI to empower—not replace—your child’s learning.

 

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

As your partners in Tech, we’re always here to support any questions you may have about this topic. Because tech doesn’t stop at work—it’s in our homes, our schools, and our kids’ lives. Let’s stay curious, stay informed, and keep learning together.
 
If you’d like to chat more, share your own AI house rules, or explore how to make tech safer and smarter for your family, reach out.
 
We’re just a message away.
 

Chat with us.