What Do Stories Have to Do with AI? More Than You Think
To support UK AI Awareness Day, we are encouraging schools and families to take part in simple, meaningful activities that build children’s understanding of artificial intelligence.
Books that explore coding, problem-solving, digital tools, digital citizenship, robotics, sustainability, innovation and other themes help children understand the role technology plays in everyday life. From here, it becomes easier to make meaningful connections to how AI works and why it matters.
This national initiative highlights five key themes: Safe, Smart, Creative, Responsible and Future.
Using tech-themed books from our directory, children can explore these themes through storytelling and discussion.
AI Awareness Day Activity: What to Do
- Choose a technology-themed book from the collection. As you read together, invite children to become “Tech Detectives” by spotting where technology is used
- Pause and ask -could this technology be powered by AI?
- Is the technology following instructions or learning from data?
- How is the tech helping people?
Linking Books to AI Awareness Day Themes
Following the themes from the AI Awareness Day celebration, consider the following:
- Safe – How do characters use technology safely? What rules would you create?
- Smart – What makes the technology “intelligent”?
- Creative – How could AI be used differently in the story?
- Responsible – Should we always trust technology? Why or why not?
- Future – How might this technology exist in real life as children grow up?
Extend the Learning
Encourage children to design their own AI helper inspired by the story:
- What would it do?
- Who would it help?
- How would it make a difference?
This creative activity supports deeper thinking about how artificial intelligence can be used in everyday life.
Why This Matters
UK AI Awareness Day encourages just one meaningful activity that helps children build awareness, curiosity and critical thinking about AI.
By using carefully selected tech-themed books, children are supported to:
- Understand real-world technology in context
- Ask thoughtful questions about artificial intelligence
- See themselves as future creators, not just users
This approach helps build digital literacy and confidence from an early age.
We Want to Hear From You
How are you celebrating AI Awareness Day through books?
Send us a short summary or photos of your activities and you could be featured on our website.
Your ideas could inspire other schools and families to explore AI through reading.
Explore our resources to support recommended books