If you have children in the New Brunswick school system, you need to follow a new debate unfolding in Fredericton. Provincial leaders are actively discussing a ban on social media and artificial intelligence for youth.

Green Party Deputy Leader Megan Mitton recently pressed Premier Susan Holt on the issue during Question Period. Mitton urged the province to follow Manitoba, which plans to implement a ban soon. “Social media platforms are designed to be addictive and designed to get kids hooked,” Mitton said.

According to a report from Global News, Premier Holt is open to the idea. Holt noted she wrestles with the issue at home and restricts device access for her own three children. “We think what Manitoba is proposing is really interesting and we have a team that is looking right now at the various policy mechanisms,” Holt said. She confirmed the province is also keeping a close eye on similar age gate legislation in Australia.

The Debate Over AI in Classrooms

The conversation extends beyond social media apps. Mitton also raised alarms about the draft curriculum for the anglophone sector, which includes artificial intelligence tools. She questioned why kindergarten students need AI to generate ideas when they should use their own brains.

Education Minister Claire Johnson defended the technology. She stated AI tools assist students with learning difficulties and create dynamic educational environments. Johnson clarified that the K to 12 strategy introduces AI awareness in the lower grades, while actual use happens much later. “They do not start using AI until much later,” Johnson said.

Opposition Leader Glen Savoie expressed deep concern about the long term impact of AI on young learners. He questioned the future value of a high school diploma if the system trains students to rely on AI instead of thinking independently from age five.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New Brunswick banning social media for children?

The provincial government is currently reviewing policy options to restrict social media access for youth. They are studying upcoming bans in Manitoba and Australia to develop best practices.

Will kindergarten students use AI chatbots?

Education Minister Claire Johnson says early grade levels will focus strictly on AI awareness. Students will not actively use AI tools until they reach higher grade levels.

Why do politicians want to ban these platforms?

Leaders argue tech companies design social media to be addictive. They point to evidence showing these platforms harm youth mental health and disrupt basic habits like sleeping and eating.