AI in Childcare: Help or Threat?
Amsterdam, woensdag, 18 juni 2025.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly taking over tasks in childcare, leading to discussions about its impact on pedagogical care. Experts such as Victor Hendrikse from Brainwave Consultancy see AI as a valuable aid for administrative tasks and maintaining developmental logs. However, there are also warnings about possible negative consequences for human interaction in childcare. On 7 November, a masterclass will take place to delve deeper into these issues.
AI as Support in Childcare
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used more frequently in childcare to support administrative tasks and simplify the maintenance of children’s developmental logs. Victor Hendrikse, owner of Brainwave Consultancy, states that AI can be a valuable aid in creating policy documents and informing about legislation and regulations [1]. He emphasizes that AI tools in childcare should be seen more as an intern helping with administrative tasks, rather than a replacement for human contact [1].
Discussion on the Role of AI
While some view AI as an indispensable helper, others warn of potential negative consequences for pedagogical care. There is an ongoing discussion about the impact of AI on the role of pedagogical staff and the quality of care [1]. It is important to remain vigilant about where AI is and is not used, and to always think critically about the reasons for implementing this technology [1].
Masterclass on AI in Childcare
To delve deeper into these issues, a masterclass will take place on 7 November 2025 with speakers Victor Hendrikse, Ilona Boomsma, and Sanne Cornelisse. The masterclass will be held in Veenendaal and focuses on the application and impact of AI in childcare [1][2]. Participants can expect to gain insight into the possibilities and limitations of AI, and how this technology can improve the quality of pedagogical care without undermining human contact [1].
Practical Examples of AI in Childcare
There are already several practical examples of successful AI applications in childcare. One example is the automatic generation of reports and the maintenance of internal notes on children’s development, such as motor and social skills [1]. This helps pedagogical staff to have more time for direct interaction with children and their parents [1].
Benefits and Challenges
The application of AI in childcare offers both benefits and challenges. Benefits include efficient handling of administrative tasks, maintaining detailed developmental logs, and increasing the availability of relevant information for pedagogical staff and parents [1]. Challenges include the need to ensure privacy, promote inclusivity, and guarantee the reliability of AI systems [1].
Support for Professionals
For professionals in childcare, the online platform SkillsTown offers training and webinars to develop their AI skills. These trainings help pedagogical staff to work effectively with tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, and Midjourney in their daily work [3]. By developing these skills, professionals can be better prepared for the integration of AI in childcare [3].