From play to purpose: Using Gen AI to cultivate 21st century skills in early learners

This session is designed for school leaders, early years educators, curriculum planners and EdTech specialists who are exploring innovative ways to nurture 21st-century competencies in young learners. It will offer insights into how Gen AI can become a trusted co-facilitator in early childhood classrooms, not as a replacement, but as a creative partner. 

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in our lives, the early years are the perfect time to introduce it as a supportive, ethical, and engaging presence in a child’s world. This session bridges the gap between playful learning and purposeful tech integration, ensuring that our youngest learners are not just tech-savvy, but future-ready, empathetic, and imaginative human beings. 

You will gain an understanding of the following: 

1. The potential of Gen AI tools in fostering imagination, communication, creativity, and empathy among young learners. 

2. Explore practical, age-appropriate tools that support child-led inquiry and playful learning, including story authoring, music creation, podcasting, image generation, and simple video creation. 

3. Recognise Gen AI’s role in promoting ethical thinking and empathy through emotionally resonant activities and collaborative experiences. 

4. Learn strategies for differentiated learning catering to various learning styles and multiple intelligences. 

This session will share concrete ideas and tools for you to take back to school and implement right away. You’ll gain an understanding of how to use AI responsibly and creatively in developmentally appropriate ways whilst also saving time by simplifying content creation and personalisation.