Experts: Technology Can Deepen Connection Between Children and Parents
Parents face complex decisions introducing children to AI and other technologies. Experts at the Fast Company Innovation Festival stressed that technology should foster, not replace, human connection.
Navigating childhood in the age of artificial intelligence presents new challenges for parents, who must carefully consider how and when to introduce their children to advanced technologies. Experts speaking at the Fast Company Innovation Festival in New York emphasized that the goal of any technology introduced to children should be to deepen human connection, rather than replace it.
"The best way to get children ready for a high-tech future is ironically a low-tech childhood," said Dana Suskind, author of "Human Raised." She added that while technology has a role, "the messy human relationship at this point, should never be replaced."
Chet Kittleson, CEO of Tin Can, shared how his daughter's request for a smart device was rooted in a desire to connect with her best friend. This insight led him to co-found Tin Can, a company that offers a simplified, landline-style phone for Gen Alpha, intentionally avoiding features that could foster addictive behaviors.
Sachin Chaudhry, founder of TrustCircle, highlighted technology's potential to support children's emotional well-being. TrustCircle uses technology to identify children at risk for emotional distress, connecting them with school counselors. Chaudhry noted that technology designed to empower children can facilitate self-expression and the development of emotional resilience, a skill he believes will be crucial for future success.