AI's Effect on Creativity: A Parent's View

Published Date : 20/10/2025 

Explore the joys and challenges of using AI in creative processes, particularly from a parent's viewpoint. Discover the importance of the creative journey over the end result. 

The Impact of AI on Creativity: A Parent's Perspective

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of various industries, including music, art, and literature. As a parent, I recently had an experience that made me reflect on the role of AI in creativity and the value of the creative process.

My kids, like many others their age, are fascinated by technology. They often explore new tools and platforms, and one day, they decided to write a song using an AI-powered music generator. The result was a surprisingly well-structured tune, complete with lyrics and instrumental accompaniment. While I was impressed by the quality of the output, I couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed. The song was good, but something was missing—the joy and excitement of the creative process.

The Joy of Creation

When I was young, creating music was a hands-on, often messy affair. We would gather around instruments, experiment with different sounds, and spend hours refining our songs. The process was filled with laughter, frustration, and a sense of achievement. It was the journey, not the destination, that made it all worthwhile.

AI, on the other hand, can produce a polished product with minimal effort. While this efficiency is impressive, it can also rob us of the rich, rewarding experience of creating something from scratch. The act of brainstorming, experimenting, and collaborating is what makes creativity so fulfilling. It’s the moments of inspiration, the trial and error, and the sense of accomplishment that truly define the creative process.

The Role of AI in Education

As AI continues to advance, it’s becoming increasingly important to teach children the value of the creative process. While AI can be a valuable tool, it should not replace the hands-on experience of creating something original. In schools, teachers are beginning to incorporate AI into their curricula, but with a focus on using it as a supplement to traditional methods. For example, students might use AI to generate ideas or refine their work, but the bulk of the creative process remains in their hands.

The Future of Creativity

The arrival of AI is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers incredible opportunities for innovation and efficiency. On the other hand, it poses a significant challenge to the traditional creative disciplines. Authors, musicians, and artists are all grappling with the question of how to integrate AI into their work without losing the essence of what makes their creations unique.

Michael Connelly, the renowned author of the Lincoln Lawyer series, has expressed his concerns about the rapid pace of technological change. In a recent interview, he stated, “Every kind of creative discipline is in danger.” Connelly fears that AI could make his work seem “archaic” before it’s even published, highlighting the need for creators to stay adaptable and open to new tools.

Balancing Technology and Tradition

The key to navigating this new landscape is to find a balance between technology and tradition. While AI can be a powerful tool, it should not replace the joy and fulfillment of the creative process. As parents and educators, we must encourage children to explore their creativity in both digital and analog forms. This approach not only enriches their experiences but also prepares them for a future where AI is a part of everyday life.

Conclusion

In the end, the true value of creativity lies in the process, not the product. Whether it’s writing a song, painting a picture, or writing a novel, the journey of creation is what makes it all worthwhile. As AI continues to evolve, let’s remember to embrace the joy and challenge of the creative process, and to use technology as a tool to enhance, not replace, our creative endeavors.

About the Author

Myke Bartlett is a writer and educator with a passion for technology and creativity. He has been exploring the intersection of AI and education for several years and is committed to helping children understand the value of the creative process in a digital world. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main concern about AI and creativity?

A: The main concern is that AI can produce high-quality creative outputs with minimal effort, potentially robbing individuals of the rich, rewarding experience of the creative process.

Q: How can AI be used in education without replacing traditional methods?

A: AI can be used as a supplement to traditional methods, helping students generate ideas or refine their work, while the bulk of the creative process remains hands-on.

Q: What is Michael Connelly's view on AI in creative disciplines?

A: Michael Connelly, the author of the Lincoln Lawyer series, is concerned that AI could make his work seem ‘archaic’ before it’s even published, highlighting the need for creators to stay adaptable.

Q: Why is the creative process important?

A: The creative process is important because it involves brainstorming, experimenting, and collaborating, which are all rewarding experiences that make creativity fulfilling.

Q: How can parents and educators balance technology and tradition in teaching creativity?

A: Parents and educators can balance technology and tradition by encouraging children to explore their creativity in both digital and analog forms, using technology as a tool to enhance, not replace, the creative process. 

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