Modern British parents are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence for support with their parenting challenges, according to groundbreaking new research. A comprehensive study has revealed that families across the UK are embracing AI tools to navigate everything from homework assistance to sensitive conversations about bullying and relationships.
The Rise of AI in Family Life
The research, conducted by OnePoll for 72Point, surveyed 5,000 adults and uncovered striking statistics about how technology is transforming parenting approaches. Three in ten parents of children under 18 who use AI tools have already employed them to give advice to their children, while an additional 33% are considering doing so.
Homework and school projects represent the most common use case, with 45% of parents utilising AI for academic support. Meanwhile, 39% turn to artificial intelligence to find age-appropriate entertainment or books for their children.
Navigating Difficult Conversations with Digital Help
Perhaps most surprisingly, the research found that 40% of parents would consult AI tools like Copilot or ChatGPT when needing to discuss challenging subjects such as bullying, grief, or relationships. This indicates a significant shift in how families are approaching sensitive topics in the digital age.
Harry Gove, spokesperson for OnePoll, commented on the findings: "AI can be a real help to very quickly find answers to questions, or solutions to problems – and for parents who are often subject to lots of questions and problems, this can be a really easy quick fix."
The study also revealed that 39% of parents find AI useful for explaining complex topics like climate change or puberty, suggesting that artificial intelligence is becoming a valuable educational resource within family homes.
Beyond Conversations: AI in Daily Family Management
Parents are leveraging AI for much more than just difficult talks. The research shows significant adoption in organisational aspects of family life. 38% of parents are creating routines for bedtimes and study sessions using AI, while 35% are planning meals and nutrition with digital assistance.
Child development is another area where AI is making inroads. The study found that 34% of parents use AI to check developmental milestones, a third employ it for managing behavioural changes, and 29% even turn to bots when wanting to support their child's mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Despite this growing acceptance, the research suggests there's room for improvement in how AI is integrated into educational settings. Only 27% of parents polled felt that enough was being done in schools to incorporate artificial intelligence tools.
Harry Gove added an important caveat: "However, the reliance on AI should only really extend to background research – parents should also consult professionals when necessary, as well as seeking help and support from friends and family."
He further emphasised the need for verification: "Parents who are using AI to support their parenting challenges should always verify where that information has been sourced and ideally go to those sources for further background."
The research paints a picture of a nation cautiously embracing AI as a parenting tool, with only 37% of parents saying they haven't considered using artificial intelligence to assist with their parenting decisions.
