Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans? - What's behind it?
The question "Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans?" is what many parents hear more often from their children these days. This is because artificial intelligence (AI) is now present in all media. But what exactly does it mean? AI refers to technologies that perform tasks that used to be the sole responsibility of humans - such as writing texts, recognising images or supporting decisions. We often read in the news that these technologies can replace humans in their work. Parents report that their children are unsettled because they wonder whether computers will soon take over all jobs. Parents often talk openly with their children about the opportunities, but also the uncertainties that AI brings with it.
Three practical examples from parents show how the conversation can work:
- A mother explains to her son that AI takes over many routine tasks, but humans remain creative and social.
- A father teaches his daughter that AI are tools that help people, not replace them.
- A family discusses together that new professions are emerging, even if some jobs are changing.
How is news like this created? The role of AI in journalism
Journalistic reports on AI sometimes appear dramatic: "AI replaces humans". However, the truth behind this is often that AI primarily performs repetitive and standardised tasks. Some media use AI to write news stories more quickly or to analyse large amounts of data. It makes reporters' work easier, but does not completely replace them. For example, the "author" AI of the Kölner Express automatically creates texts that humans then check and add to[4]. This shows that although AI is present in the news, it serves more as a support.
When talking to children, it is advisable to explain this technology and emphasise that human creativity, empathy and judgement cannot be replaced by machines.
Exemplary conversations with children:
- "AI can write texts, but only humans really understand feelings and stories."
- "News items in the newspaper are often texts edited by humans and prepared by AI."
- "AI helps journalists to investigate, but cannot report empathetically itself."
Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans? - Understanding fears and opportunities together
The statement "Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans?" raises an understandable concern. In fact, AI systems are changing many areas of work. Studies show that millions of jobs worldwide could change by 2030[3]. Parents themselves are experiencing uncertainty because they don't know exactly what this means for their professional future. But experts emphasise: AI is mostly just replacing activities that machines can do better or faster. At the same time, new professions are emerging that require creativity and social skills. The collaboration between man and machine offers great opportunities.
Three dialogue approaches for parents:
- Explain that AI is often just a tool that supports people in their everyday lives and work.
- Show how important human talents remain that machines do not have - such as compassion.
- Encourage children to remain curious and see new technologies as a learning opportunity.
Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans? - How we as parents can provide support
Many parents ask themselves how they can best prepare children for the future with AI. The answer lies in joint dialogue and educational opportunities that make technology understandable. It is also helpful to openly address fears and show that AI should not be the goal, but a tool. Concepts such as the training courses at kikidz.org offer parents and children practical insights into AI and its significance for our world. In this way, the dialogue can succeed without stirring up false hopes or panic.
Three examples from practice:
- One parent reports that children gain their first experience of AI through workshops and thus understand the topic better.
- A mum explains how team exercises help to see AI as a complement, not a threat.
- Fathers give feedback that their children learn to use AI creatively and critically.
My analysis
The question "Dad, why does the news say AI is replacing humans?" is an expression of uncertainty and curiosity for parents and children alike. AI is a complex topic that often mixes reality and fears. News stories can sometimes dramatise this, leading to misunderstandings. It is therefore important for parents to speak openly and honestly with children, explain the opportunities and limitations of AI to them and support them in their dialogue with technology. Training courses such as kikidz.org provide the best support. In this way, children learn to understand AI as a helpful tool that does not replace people, but complements and inspires them.
Further links from the text above:
[1] Six AI trends from Microsoft 2025
[3] Do we need artificial intelligence or does it need us? (Focus)
[4] AI in news journalism (Stefan Frerichs)
[5] How Germany is looking at AI (FOM)
[8] AI in media and advertising (Meedia)
For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Contact us or read more blog posts on the topic Children and artificial intelligence here. Click here for the courses: Children and artificial intelligence courses
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