65% of Parents Say They’d Choose AI Mindfulness Tools for Their Kids—But Are They Safe?

Exploring the promise and pitfalls of integrating AI into children's well-being.

Hello and welcome to this edition of our newsletter! As we navigate the exciting intersection of AI and education, the adoption of AI mindfulness tools in our children’s lives is a topic that deserves careful consideration. While a significant majority of parents express support for these technologies, it's essential to ask: how can we ensure that these tools prioritize safety and well-being? Join us as we delve into this critical conversation—your insights and thoughts are always welcomed!

🚀 AI Education Revolution

Hey educators and parents! Here's what's new in AI learning:

• Big moves: The White House is ramping up efforts in AI education to stay competitive globally. Recently, the White House Task Force on AI Education held its inaugural meeting, making AI literacy and workforce development top priorities. They announced plans to adjust federal funding to incentivize AI adoption in schools, ensuring that our educational system prepares future generations for a tech-driven world. Read more here.

• Schools going digital: For the first time ever, AI has topped the list of priorities for K-12 educational technology, surpassing cybersecurity, according to the latest annual survey by SETDA. Schools nationwide are now focusing on guidance and professional development related to AI, creating more opportunities for teachers and students. This shift emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into the curriculum effectively. Discover the insights here.

• Private sector push: Leaders from IBM, Google, and Microsoft are committing significant resources to enhance AI education, ensuring that students acquire necessary skills for the future job market. Their involvement is a crucial step to equip educators and learners with AI tools that can transform learning experiences.

Stay tuned for more updates on how these developments in AI education can support social emotional learning and mindfulness tools in the classroom!

🔍 SETDA Survey Spotlight

Attention tech-savvy! SETDA's latest twist reveals:

• AI is king in edtech priorities: For the first time, AI has surpassed cybersecurity in K-12 education technology priorities. This shift highlights a growing recognition of AI’s pivotal role in shaping the future of education, with state leaders now focusing on guidance and professional development related to AI. Read the full scoop here.

• Why this matters: State leaders are crafting policies to ensure that AI serves equity and impacts education positively. Julia Fallon, Executive Director of SETDA, emphasizes the commitment to responsible AI usage and enhancing educational outcomes. This focus will create exciting opportunities for students and educators alike!

• Calling for innovators: Looking to make a mark? The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 is your chance to showcase transformative edtech projects and celebrate innovations that drive AI integration in schools. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to the future of education. Discover more about the awards here.

Stay informed and engaged as we embrace the AI education revolution!

🤔 Mindfulness Matters

PSA for parents and mental health pros: AI mindfulness tools are booming—are they safe?

• Parents love it: Recent insights indicate a strong acceptance of AI tools among parents, with 65% supportive of using AI for their children’s mindfulness and well-being initiatives. This positive sentiment is crucial as we navigate the rise of technology in our kids' lives.

• Competing apps galore: The market is flooded with a variety of AI mindfulness apps—think of big names like Calm and Smiling Mind, as well as innovative contenders in the space like Moshi and Headspace. Each offers unique features to cater to different age groups and needs, making it easier for parents to find suitable options for their kids. This explosion in choices is not only exciting but also underscores the significant role of AI in promoting mental health through education, as highlighted in the latest SETDA survey, which reveals a shift in educational technology priorities towards AI, emphasizing its integration in K-12 settings (source).

• The big question: With so many options, how can we ensure these tools are just right for our young ones? The key lies in balancing AI's capabilities with our children's developmental needs. Julia Fallon, the Executive Director of SETDA, emphasizes the commitment to responsibility and equity in AI deployment in schools. This same care should apply when choosing mindfulness apps—ensuring they foster a positive impact on education and emotional well-being, as also showcased by the White House Task Force's emphasis on integrating AI in educational environments (source).

Stay vigilant as we embrace technology’s potential while safeguarding our children's mental health!