As artificial intelligence and digital technology become increasingly woven into everyday life, parents face a new question: how can children be prepared for a future dominated by technology without spending their childhoods surrounded by screens?
A childhood researcher and doctor cited by CNBC argues that one answer may be surprisingly simple — give children more opportunities for a low-tech childhood.
Human skills matter more than ever
In a world where AI can increasingly perform tasks involving information, writing and problem-solving, qualities that are uniquely human could become increasingly important.
Creativity, curiosity, resilience, communication and the ability to build relationships are among the skills children can develop through everyday experiences away from digital devices.
Playing outdoors, reading books, making things with their hands, talking with family members and solving problems independently can all provide children with opportunities to develop these abilities.
Let children experience boredom
The argument is not necessarily about keeping children away from technology completely. Rather, it is about ensuring that digital entertainment does not replace experiences that help children develop independence and imagination.
Even boredom can have a role. When children are not constantly entertained by screens, they have to find their own ways to play, explore and create.
These moments can encourage imagination and problem-solving without an app providing an immediate answer.
Preparing children for a changing world
Technology will remain an important part of children’s education and future careers. Learning to use digital tools responsibly will therefore remain valuable.
But preparing children for an AI-powered future may involve more than teaching them how to use the latest technology. Giving them strong human foundations could be equally important.
For parents, the message is simple: children may need less screen time today to develop the human qualities they will need most tomorrow.