What is AI & Why it Matters

This article introduces families to the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms. It explains how AI systems influence everyday decisions - from streaming recommendations to online ads - and why it's important for parents and children to understand how these technologies work. With real-life examples and simple conversation starters, the article encourages families to think critically about the digital tools they use and empowers them to ask thoughtful questions about fairness, transparency, and influence.

5/8/20242 min read

a man and two children looking at a laptop

What Is AI & Why It Matters to Your Family

Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s already woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. From the videos your kids watch on YouTube to the ads you see while scrolling social media, algorithms and AI systems are quietly shaping what we see, what we buy, and even how we think.

So what exactly is AI and why should families care?

What Is AI?

AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, which simply means machines that can “think” or make decisions based on data. These systems learn patterns from huge amounts of information and use those patterns to make predictions or choices.

For example:

Netflix uses AI to recommend shows based on what you’ve watched.
Google Maps uses AI to suggest the fastest route.
TikTok uses AI to decide which videos show up on your feed.

These systems rely on algorithms, which are step-by-step instructions that tell computers how to solve problems or make decisions. Think of them like recipes: if you follow the steps, you get a result. But unlike recipes, algorithms can adjust themselves based on what they learn over time.

Why Families Should Pay Attention

AI shapes decisions that impact families, communities, and kids. You don’t have to be a tech whiz to care about AI - it’s already part of your daily life.

It shapes your children’s worldview. Algorithms decide what content your kids see online. That means they’re not just watching videos - they’re being influenced by invisible systems that prioritize engagement over accuracy or safety.
It affects fairness. AI is used in hiring, lending, and even school admissions. If these systems are biased (and many are), they can unfairly disadvantage certain groups - including your family.
It’s not always transparent. Most people don’t know how these systems work or who controls them. That’s why critical thinking is key: asking questions, reading between the lines, and teaching kids to do the same.

Talking to Your Kids About AI

You don’t need a computer science degree to talk about AI with your family. Try these questions at dinner or during a car ride:

“Why do you think that video popped up on your feed?”
“What do you think the app knows about you?”
“Who benefits from showing you that ad?”

These simple questions can spark powerful conversations—and help your family become more aware, more curious, and more empowered.

Final Thought

AI is here to stay. But with a little knowledge and a lot of curiosity, families can learn to navigate it wisely. The goal isn’t to fear technology. it’s to understand it, question it, and use it in ways that support our values.

In a world of persuasive algorithms, critical thinking is a life vest - every child deserves to have one.