Use AI to explain, quiz and give feedback, not to produce the work you hand in. A good rule: if a teacher read the conversation with the AI, would they agree your child still did the thinking?
Helpful uses
- Explaining a concept another way: "Explain photosynthesis like I'm 11."
- Generating practice questions: "Give me five questions on fractions, without answers."
- Checking understanding: "Here's my explanation of the water cycle. What did I miss?"
- Feedback on a draft: "What are two ways I could make this paragraph clearer?"
- Planning: "Help me make a study timetable for my exams."
Not helpful (and often against school rules)
- Asking AI to write the essay, story or answers
- Copying AI text and submitting it as your own
- Using AI during tests or assessments
- Letting AI do maths homework step by step without trying first
Check the school's policy
Schools increasingly have rules about AI. Some allow it for research and feedback; some ban it for certain tasks. Check the policy, and if in doubt, ask the teacher. Being honest about AI help is always better than hiding it.
Rules a family can agree on
- Try first. Attempt the work before asking AI.
- AI explains, I write. The words handed in are your own.
- Check facts. AI can be wrong.
- Be honest. Tell your teacher if you used AI and how.
- No personal details. Never share names, school or photos.
Prompts that build learning
Teach children to ask for hints, not answers: "Don't give me the answer: give me a hint about the first step." This turns AI into a patient tutor rather than an answer machine, and the learning stays with the child.
Why this matters
Homework exists to build skills: writing, reasoning, problem-solving. If AI does the work, the skill never develops, and it shows in exams where AI is not available. Children who learn to use AI as a study partner, not a substitute, get the benefits without the cost.
Our AI for Kids course teaches responsible use of AI tools, including for schoolwork. Read also is AI safe for kids?.
Our technology courses for kids: Fun with Coding (ages 10–16), Learn Python (ages 12–18) and Artificial Intelligence for Kids (ages 12–16). For younger children, try the free AI Explorers workshop or our free at-home coding activities.
Frequently asked questions
Is using AI for homework cheating?
It depends on how it is used and the school's rules. Using AI to explain or give feedback is usually fine; submitting AI-written work as your own is not.
How can AI help my child study?
By explaining concepts in simpler words, generating practice questions and giving feedback on drafts the child has written.
Can teachers tell if work was written by AI?
Often, yes, and more importantly, students who let AI do the work struggle in exams where AI is not available.
What is a good AI prompt for students?
One that asks for hints or explanations rather than answers, such as 'Give me a hint for the first step, not the answer.'
More coding & AI guides for parents
- Python for kids: what to learn first, and in what order
- Why we start beginners on Small Basic before Python
- Scratch vs Python for kids: which should your child learn?
- 15 coding project ideas for kids, from beginner to intermediate
- How coding helps kids at school
- Is my child ready for Python? Signs to look for
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Written by the Learning Bubble teaching team. If something here does not match your situation, ask us. We would rather give you a straight answer than have you guess.