Artificial intelligence is changing the way students research, write and complete schoolwork. But Texas State Rep. Jolanda Jones believes one skill should never be replaced by technology: the ability to think independently.

Speaking during a June 22 Houston Community Media discussion on the challenges facing children and teenagers, Jones encouraged parents, educators and community leaders to help young people develop critical thinking skills before relying on artificial intelligence to solve problems.

Rather than rejecting technology altogether, Jones said she believes students should first learn the fundamentals of writing, problem-solving and independent learning before turning to AI for assistance.

Learning Before Technology

Jones believes children should develop their own ideas and writing skills.

“You have to be able to critically think,” she said.

She also shared her philosophy for using AI responsibly.

“The only way for it to work is for us to do the work first, and then let AI look at it. Not the other way around,” she stressed.

Throughout the discussion, Jones said she believes education should continue emphasizing independent learning and problem-solving as technology becomes a larger part of everyday life. Those comments reflected her perspective on how schools and families can prepare young people for the future.

Building Confidence Beyond the Screen

The conversation also focused on social media and its influence on children’s self-esteem.

Jones expressed concern that heavily edited images and carefully curated online lives can create unrealistic expectations for young people. She encouraged parents to help children develop confidence based on who they are rather than what they see online.

“I think that the best way to be your best self is to honestly assess who you are,” Jones said.

The Value of Perseverance

Jones said she believes children build resilience by working through difficult tasks instead of immediately looking for answers, a perspective she said should remain central as schools and families navigate the growing presence of AI.

“My grandmother has taught me for a long time that when you stop using it, you lose it,” she said, placing emphasis on continuing to practice skills like reading and critical thinking.

“There is a benefit to struggle.”

Continuing Conversations, Promoting Awareness

Jones said parents play an essential role in helping children understand both the opportunities and limitations of technology.

Asked how community media can help families navigate artificial intelligence and social media, she offered a straightforward answer:

“Print articles about it,” she said, encouraging continued public discussion so parents can make informed decisions for their children’s futures.

Jones’ discussion marked the second conversation in Houston Community Media’s three-part Who Cares About Youth? series, which examines the challenges facing children and teenagers in Texas through conversations with state lawmakers. State Rep. Gene Wu opened the series by focusing on juvenile justice, while the final installment will feature State Rep. Penny Morales Shaw.