If your child asks an AI to do their homework, how would you respond?
There is no standard answer to this question. However, at the first-ever Parents' Summit of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2026, Dr Sylvia Chan, Principal of Ying Wa Primary School, and parenting educator Mr Kay Ho offered an open and laughter-filled dialogue that left attending parents with more than a few practical strategies to take home.
The Wheels of Time Will Not Halt Due to Fear
Faced with AI sweeping through the education sector, many parents are filled with doubts. Dr Chan, however, responded with her usual calm approach: from Octopus cards to smartphones, every era has its sceptics, but eventually, everyone has to 'join the club'. The key is not whether to use it, but whether we can use it smartly. She openly shared that as soon as AI chatbots emerged, she proactively enrolled in AI courses and sought out first-hand information to lead her school in developing an AI policy framework. This gave teachers a clear guideline to experiment boldly. Her courage to stay 'one step ahead' is precisely the greatest inspiration she offers to all educators and parents.
The AI Chatbot That Refuses to Give Answers
Kay Ho also shared an anecdote about his 11-year-old son, who taught himself coding and designed a chatbot. However, this AI operates under an ironclad rule: it never gives a direct answer. If you ask 'What is 3+3?', it won't tell you '6'. Instead, it guides you to think and calculate using apples as an analogy. This story prompted the parents in the audience to rethink the value of AI, showing that its worth may not lie in how quickly it provides answers, but in its ability to help children ask better questions and think deeper.
When Happiness Comes Too Easily, Children End Up Unhappy
Dr Chan shared a thought-provoking observation: the unhappiness of modern children stems precisely from the fact that instant gratification is too easy to come by. The true reward of learning is hidden within that long process of being stuck, turning things over, and figuring them out. She reminded parents that instead of chasing fast, flawless results, they should learn to delay gratification and enjoy the simple pleasure of thinking alongside their children. The satisfaction that comes after waiting is the kind of happiness that truly lasts.
We look forward to seeing you at next year's Learning & Teaching Expo 2027.
24–26 June 2027
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre