Real Talk

A Parent’s Guide: Should Kids Use AI for Homework?

by Kevyn Gohu
February 23, 2026

When kids turn to AI to help them with homework, is it really the right thing to do?

From Quezon City high schools to international schools in BGC, kids are opening tabs, typing prompts, and asking AI to explain algebra, summarize Noli Me Tangere, or outline a science report. Supposedly, everything is due tomorrow. While it makes sense to use a tool to streamline and make things easy, it’s been damaging in the long run: a lot of kids can’t even write or do things on their own without ChatGPT.

The question isn’t whether children can use tools like ChatGPT.

The real question is: Should they? And if yes, how?

First: What Is AI Actually Doing for Homework?

AI tools like ChatGPT generate responses based on patterns from vast data. They can:

Explain difficult concepts
Generate practice questions
Outline essays
Edit grammar
Summarize readings
Brainstorm ideas

Used properly, AI functions like a tutor.

Used carelessly, it becomes a shortcut.

And shortcuts, as we know, rarely build stamina.

The Case For Kids Using AI

Let’s be honest. Filipino students are under pressure.

Heavy subject loads. Competitive grading systems. College entrance exams. Group projects that somehow become solo projects.

When used intentionally, AI can:

1. Improve Understanding

If your child doesn’t understand fractions or photosynthesis, AI can break it down in multiple ways — instantly.

2. Build Confidence

Sometimes kids are too shy to ask teachers questions. AI offers private clarification without embarrassment.

3. Support English Writing

For students in bilingual households, AI can help refine grammar while preserving their voice.

4. Teach Structure

Seeing a model essay can help kids understand organization — introduction, argument, conclusion.

That’s not cheating.

That’s scaffolding.

The Case Against Unsupervised AI Use

Here’s the part we cannot ignore.

If a child copies and pastes AI output as their own work, three things happen:

Critical thinking weakens.
Writing muscles shrink.
Integrity gets blurry.

Homework is not about the grade. It’s about building cognitive endurance.

If AI removes the struggle entirely, learning disappears with it.

And struggle — the healthy kind — is where growth lives.

What Filipino Parents Need to Watch For

In the Philippines, where academic excellence is often equated with family pride, the temptation to “optimize” results can be strong.

But ask yourself:

Is my child explaining ideas in their own words?
Can they defend their answers verbally?
Are they using AI to learn — or to avoid effort?

You’ll know the difference.

If your child suddenly writes like a university thesis candidate but can’t summarize their own paragraph? That’s your cue.

Healthy AI Rules for Homework

Here’s the framework I recommend at Modern Parenting:

1. AI Is a Study Tool, Not a Substitute for their Brain

Children can ask for explanations, examples, or practice questions. They should not submit AI-written work as their own.

2. Draft First, Then Use AI

Encourage your child to write a first draft independently. AI can then help refine clarity or grammar.

3. Verify Information

AI can make mistakes. Teach your child to cross-check with textbooks or credible sources.

4. Talk About Ethics

Frame this not as “You’ll get caught,” but as “What will you do if the internet suddenly disappears?”

5. Keep Teachers in the Loop

Many Philippine schools are already discussing AI policies. Stay informed instead of reactive.

The Bigger Conversation: We’re Raising Digital Citizens

AI is here to stay.

By the time our children enter university or the workforce, AI fluency will likely be expected. The goal is not to ban tools — it’s to teach discernment.

We didn’t forbid calculators.

We taught kids how to use them.

The same principle applies here.