This article was originally published in Real Clear Policy.
Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are occurring at an unprecedented rate, garnering countless headlines and sparking concerns about the transformative effects of new technologies, especially in the workplace. While some commentators fear large-scale displacement of human labor across society, most experts believe AI will augment human labor and change workers’ roles and responsibilities. Consequently, while AI likely won’t eliminate the need for human labor altogether, it will change the way humans work and the skills needed to succeed. Skills like working well in teams, communicating effectively, and thinking creatively, broadly known as “soft skills,” are becoming more important than ever. Fortunately, there is an easy, accessible way to help develop these skills from an early age: free play.
