Parenting with AI: A Controversial Approach

Modern parenting is full of surprises, but the idea of using AI to raise children is particularly jarring. A woman named Lillian Schmidt, who isn’t a single mother, has started consulting ChatGPT for help with her two kids: a 3-year-old daughter and a 14-year-old son-in-law. According to the New York Post, she claims to never let AI make decisions but often seeks its advice.

Schmidt, who lives in Zurich, Switzerland, mentioned, “I’ll use it to make me a better mom,” indicating a certain reliance on technology. She seems to turn to the app, especially during her low-energy moments, suggesting she’s trained it to understand her child’s development needs.

However, there’s a serious concern here. Many argue that leaning on AI for parenting duties could undermine the emotional connections that parents are uniquely equipped to provide. It raises questions—does letting a computer help in raising a child signal a lack of commitment to the emotional labor that’s essential in parenting?

There’s a fear that Schmidt may miss out on precious experiences in her daughter’s life, effectively allowing AI to take on a role that should belong to her. Parents often overlook the fleeting nature of childhood—each summer, holiday, and birthday represents a limited window for creating lasting memories and bonds.

Looking at the broader picture, those like Schmidt may be reflecting a breakdown in traditional family structures. Once upon a time, support from extended family—grandparents, aunts, uncles—was more common, with wisdom and multitasking shared across generations, easing the burden on parents. Today, that support system is rare in many cases.

While Schmidt believes AI can help her manage her emotions and become a better parent, this reliance might not be the solution she’s hoping for. AI, fundamentally, is just a tool that learns from data and doesn’t mimic genuine human interaction. Her daughter will likely sense the disconnect, feeling the absence of authentic maternal involvement as Schmidt lets technology take over.

There’s also a broader concern regarding technology’s influence on children. Experts often call for caution, citing that allowing screens and technology to play a major role in parenting could adversely affect emotional and social development.