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Dialogue
Embracing AI in Preschool: A Tool for Educators, Not a Threat
Lienīte Kukša, Head of the “CreaKids” Private Preschool Branch
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most discussed topics, permeating various fields—from healthcare and science to art and education. AI solutions are actively used in many industries, and research indicates that nearly half (41%) of Latvian businesses view AI as a helpful tool in their work. However, the question arises: can AI be an effective assistant in every field, and can it provide valuable support even in a preschool education setting?
Preschool is a place where children are encouraged to discover, explore, and experiment. To create an environment that fosters this, educators must keep up with the times, continuously develop their skills, and adapt to new challenges—one of which is AI. While many teachers have concerns about its use, it is important to understand that AI is not a threat—it is a tool that can enhance educators’ work and allow them to dedicate more time to meaningful interactions with children.
How Can AI Tools Help in Preschool?
Artificial intelligence offers numerous advantages in preschool education. It can assist in planning and documenting play activities while also serving as a source of inspiration for new ideas. For example, AI can help teachers create monthly lesson plans, structure educational content according to age groups and guidelines, and adapt various activities to meet each child’s individual needs, considering their interests and abilities.
A widely recognized and frequently used AI feature is the creation of visualizations, making the learning process more engaging, understandable, and exciting. AI can also generate creative ideas and activities to enhance team well-being. AI tools benefit both experienced teachers and newcomers by saving time that would otherwise be spent on manual or administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on direct communication with children.
Embracing Innovation and Digital Solutions
Educators are open to innovations and digital solutions, and many modern tools are already being used in daily work. One such example is digital bees—simple, child-friendly, and easy-to-use technologies that introduce basic programming concepts through play. Children direct the bees’ movement either by following teacher instructions or creating their own paths. While this may seem like simple fun, it actually develops children’s logical thinking and creativity.
AI tools undoubtedly have a place in preschool education. For instance, if the monthly theme is space, AI can suggest daily activities, generate visualizations, provide educational tasks suited to each child’s knowledge and skill level, and even create a space-themed fairy tale! This helps teachers focus on delivering high-quality and inspiring lessons.
To facilitate the adoption of new tools, collaboration among teachers is essential. We incorporate experience sharing into weekly meetings and participate in various training sessions to strengthen professional growth.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunities
Many educators remain sceptical about AI tools, fearing issues such as data security risks or the possibility that AI might replace teachers. However, it is crucial to remember that AI does not operate autonomously—it is a tool controlled and applied by the educator. When used responsibly and critically evaluated, AI becomes a highly valuable assistant that will never replace teachers as living, human mentors. Instead, it saves time, allowing teachers to focus more on meaningful conversations, listening to children, and addressing their emotions and concerns.
Artificial intelligence is not a threat but an opportunity to enhance preschool education. It does not replace teachers but makes their work easier and inspires new approaches. Educators should not fear AI tools—when used skilfully, they become valuable time-saving assistants and a means to improve education quality. The more we use AI, the better we will understand its potential.
Preschool-aged children are naturally curious and courageous explorers—so let us be the same. Let’s explore AI’s possibilities and use them to our advantage. We cannot ignore technological progress, but we can apply it wisely to create meaningful and enriching learning experiences in preschool.
[1] Study by “Jumis Pro,” the developer of the business management system “Jumis.”