Frequently Asked Questions
Are you anti-technology?
No. We use plenty of technology — GPS, streaming services, digital calendars, video calls. What we are skeptical of is handing children AI tools that short-circuit the cognitive work that builds real capability. There is a big difference between a calculator that speeds up arithmetic and an AI that writes your essay for you.
At what age do you think kids should be introduced to AI?
We do not think there is one right answer, and we are wary of anyone who gives you a specific number without knowing your child. What we do believe: children should develop foundational skills — reading, writing, reasoning, problem-solving — before they have access to tools that can do those things for them. Think of it like swimming: you learn to swim before you get a life jacket.
What do you say when your kids ask why they cannot use AI for homework?
We are honest. We tell them that the struggle is the point — that the frustration of not immediately knowing an answer is what builds the brain. We also tell them that a lot of adults are using AI as a crutch and finding out, too late, that they cannot think without it. We want better for them.
How do you handle it when their school uses AI tools?
Carefully. We talk to teachers, read the actual policies, and make judgment calls. Some AI use at school is fine (accessibility tools, certain research aids). What we push back on is AI that does the intellectual work for children — summarizing texts they should read, writing responses they should compose, solving problems they should wrestle with.
My child says all their friends use AI. How do I handle the social pressure?
This is real, and it is hard. A few things that have helped us: framing our rules as an advantage (“you will actually be better at this than kids who outsourced it”), keeping the conversation ongoing rather than issuing edicts, and acknowledging that our kids are giving something up. Pretending it is easy does not help.
Do you use AI yourselves?
Yes, sometimes, for adult work tasks. We are transparent with our kids about this and explain the difference: we are using tools in a context where our core skills are already developed. We are not learning to write — we are managing schedules and researching purchases. The distinction matters.
I disagree with your approach. Can I say so?
Absolutely. Thoughtful disagreement is welcome. We are not trying to start a movement or tell other parents what to do — we are sharing what we are doing and why. If your experience or reasoning leads somewhere different, we are genuinely interested in hearing it.
How can I contact you?
Email us at wheretobackpacker@gmail.com. We read everything and reply when we can.