Parental Perspectives on Generative AI in Children's Education Reveal Mixed Feelings

Insights from Wonderfy's Educational AI Survey

Wonderfy Inc., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, which offers educational applications like "Think!Think!" and STEAM communication materials such as "Wonderbox," recently conducted a survey among parents of children aged 4 to 10 about their perspectives on generative AI, including ChatGPT. The results illuminate the mixed feelings parents have regarding this technology in their children's learning.

Survey Findings Highlighted

1. Generative AI: A Tool with Caution

The survey revealed that the most common sentiment among parents is that while generative AI is deemed convenient, it requires careful usage. Approximately 42.7% of respondents shared this view. Furthermore, about 35.1% expressed a positive interest, anticipating new possibilities and wanting to learn more about how to utilize these tools effectively.

Conversely, around 7.6% voiced concerns that generative AI could negatively impact their children's learning and growth, highlighting the contrasting views among parents regarding its implementation.

2. Digital Learning Engagement Affects AI Perception

Households that frequently use digital educational materials tend to have a more positive outlook on generative AI. The survey categorized responses into three groups: positive, neutral, and negative impressions. Among families who primarily use digital educational tools—comprising over 60% of their learning—39.0% held a positive view of generative AI, while only 11.7% expressed skepticism. In contrast, parents who mainly rely on traditional learning methods mirrored a more cautious attitude, with both positive and negative responses averaging around 31.7%. Those who balance digital and analog methods showed varied opinions, reflecting a lack of consensus among them.

3. Educational Values Influence AI Attitudes

The survey also examined how parental educational philosophies shape their feelings towards generative AI. Parents who prioritize nurturing creativity and imagination exhibited a greater interest in generative AI, with 40.4% expressing a positive attitude compared to only 8.8% who felt apprehensive. Meanwhile, families that emphasize communication skills had divided opinions, with positive and negative responses likely balancing out.

Expert Commentary from Wonderfy's Research Team

The findings suggest a significant evolution in how parents are considering the role of generative AI in their children’s educational experiences. There appears to be a dichotomy in parental attitudes: on one hand, there is anxiety about prematurely introducing technology; on the other, there is an eagerness for their children to effectively engage with AI tools in the future.

The research highlighted that perceptions surrounding generative AI could differ significantly based on households' usage of digital educational resources and the core beliefs parents hold about education. For families, fostering particular skills in their children plays a key role in shaping how they view the integration of AI into learning.

As we look to the future, it’s evident that empowering children to embrace and skillfully use generative AI will be essential. Thus, nurturing independent thinking and decision-making skills is paramount. Both digital and analog experiences are crucial to foster these competencies.

Wonderfy is committed to facilitating “intelligent excitement” in children’s learning through innovative digital and analog combined experiences.

About the Survey

- Target Group: Parents with children aged 4-10 using Wonderfy's "Wonderbox" materials or have requested information.
- Methodology: Online questionnaire.
- Survey Dates: May 12-14, 2025.
- Respondents: 171 participants.
- Conducted By: Wonderfy Inc.

Wonderfy's Educational Offerings

Wonderbox: Launched in April 2020, this educational service combines digital and analog materials to enhance children’s thinking skills in STEAM subjects. It has received numerous accolades for its design and quality.

ThinkThink: This educational app encourages problem-solving through interactive play, launched in 2016 and currently used by over 3 million children across 150 countries.

Discover more about these innovative educational tools by visiting Wonderbox and ThinkThink.

About Wonderfy Inc.: Dedicated to uncovering children's innate curiosity through engaging learning materials, Wonderfy Inc. is a pioneer in STEAM education, recognized globally. Visit Wonderfy for more information.