Mother Shares Innovative Parenting Approach Using AI
A mother has opened up about a modern parenting method that has significantly benefited her and her kids.
While many in Australia turn to ChatGPT for everything from stock predictions to medical advice, Dr. Nici Sweaney has found a different application for it.
“We actually use ChatGPT as a babysitter,” she shared with a news outlet.
This Sydney mother of four, whose kids range from ages 5 to 12, has a robust background in data science and serves as the CEO of an AI consultancy called AI Her Way.
Balancing numerous responsibilities, Sweaney has leveraged her expertise to transition from feeling overwhelmed to actually having some time for herself.
“When used effectively, it really creates more time, space, and energy for love,” she noted.
With a lighter workload, she feels “more present” and is able to enjoy additional moments with her family.
“I work less than 25 hours a week, thanks to AI, and it makes me a better parent,” she revealed.
From meal planning to helping with homework, technology has eased the mental burden of motherhood.
“We use it for planning our meals, and it helps us create recipes and grocery lists to stick to our budget,” she explained.
“I’ve been doing this for around four months, and I find I’m consistently within $5 of my target when I check out.”
Additionally, she employs this technology as an educational resource for her children.
When her second oldest son faced challenges in math, she devised a highly effective tutoring system using AI.
“I had ChatGPT act as his daily tutor, with questions becoming progressively more difficult based on his answers,” Sweeney explained.
“He went from struggling to maintaining a steady level of understanding in his math skills within a year of using it.”
This approach has proven beneficial, especially during the tricky pre-teen years.
Instead of demanding her daughter discuss social issues with friends, Sweeney arranged an AI chat to encourage her to express her feelings.
“I think she opens up to it more than she does to me,” she admitted.
Following their chats, Sweeney reassured her daughter, giving her “a sense of autonomy” as she navigates her issues.
In one instance, the AI advised her daughter, “It’s not your responsibility to fix everyone else’s drama. You’re allowed to step back.”
The system is created with family dynamics in mind, especially useful in live video mode, where it can tailor interactions to each child’s needs.
“It recognizes each child, knows how to communicate with them, and celebrates their successes. It even engages them in various games, responding in real time,” Sweeney explained.
Sweeney emphasized that there is a form of “behind-the-scenes parenting” involved.
“When you set it up for kids, it’s crucial to provide clear guidelines—like age appropriateness and acceptable behaviors,” she advised.
She is particularly cautious surrounding sensitive issues such as body image and mental health, enforcing a strict rule for kids to notify her about any concerns.
Like many mothers, Sweeney sometimes struggles with guilt, yet she refuses to second-guess the role of AI in her parenting.
“People shouldn’t feel guilty for asking for help; it’s unrealistic to expect anyone to do it all,” she maintained.
However, she offered a caution for parents interested in using AI with their children.
“If you’re introducing AI to kids, especially minors, it’s like inviting a random person off the street to engage with them,” she cautioned.
“Invest some thought before introducing it to your kids.”
She emphasized the importance of minimizing risk.
“Ensure that you grasp the guidelines you set up. The AI can embody those traits, so it’s essential to supervise your children’s interactions closely and intervene if necessary.”
