AI isn't something coming- it's already here. Students are using tools like ChatGPT everyday. Some are curious, some feel unsure, and others may be using it without really understanding how it works. That's why kids don't just need limits- they need guidance. Guidance from their teachers and their parent/guardians.

In a world where technology is moving faster than most of us can keep up with, shared values provide a stable foundation. Whether you're a teacher guiding students through classroom discussions or a parent navigating tech use at home, values help anchor decisions- especially when the right choice isn't always clear. 

The Central Okanagan Public Schools' Generative AI Guidelines emphasize five core values that apply just as much at home as they do at school:
 

• Responsibility:

  • Use AI to support learning, not replace it. Teachers can model this by showing how they use tools like Copilots. Parents can ask, "How did this tool help you learn?"​

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• Equity:

  • Not every student has the same tech access. Schools should offer safe, guided experiences with AI. Families can support learning with the tools they do have and advocate for access when needed.

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• Empathy:

  • AI doesn't replace human connection. Remind students that learning happens best through real conversations, collaboration, and relationships.

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• Honesty:

  • Be open about AI use. Instead of hiding it, encourage students to say, "I used AI to get ideas, then added my own thinking."

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• Respect:

  • Teach kids to check facts, avoid copying, and protect privacy. Ask questions like, "Does this seem fair?" or "Whose perspective might be missing?"

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Educators can co-create classroom norms for when and how AI can be used. Parents can mirror this by having open conversations at home about AI tools, screen use, and digital behavior.

Conversation Starters:

• When is it okay to use AI to help with homework?

• ​What's the difference between using AI to learn vs. using it to skip  learning?

• How do we know if something AI-generated is true?

Students need to understand that AI is a tool, not a shortcut. Highlight learning processes that emphasize:

• Critical thinking over rote answers

• Reflection over perfection

• Creativity over automation

Educators and parents alike should show students how they're exploring AI too- using tools for brainstorming, planning, or research- and modeling ethical, transparent use.

Educator Example: "I used Copilot to get ideas for this assignment outline. Then I made sure it aligned with our learning goals and put my human touch on it."

Parent Example: "I used ChatGPT to write this email to your teacher to ensure my tone came across friendly."