During a recent appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” OpenAI CEO Sam Altman candidly shared his experiences with parenting, particularly the challenges of raising a newborn. Altman and his partner welcomed their child in February 2025, and he acknowledged the complexities of parenthood, especially without the assistance of advanced technology like ChatGPT.
Altman humorously remarked, “I cannot imagine having gone through, like, figuring out how to raise a newborn without ChatGPT.” His comments reflect a growing trend among new parents who seek guidance from AI tools to navigate the often daunting journey of parenthood. This discussion comes on the heels of a significant announcement from Disney regarding a new partnership with OpenAI, which allows the company’s Sora system to incorporate Disney characters, hinting at potential new dimensions in parenting support.
Embracing Imperfection in Parenting
The conversation with his son about the iconic films “Kill Bill,” directed by Quentin Tarantino, illustrates a broader point about parenting mistakes and their lasting impact. Altman reminisced about taking his son to see the films when he was younger, acknowledging that these experiences, while perhaps controversial, contributed positively to their bond.
Reflecting on the nature of parenting, Altman emphasized that mistakes are an inherent part of the process. “Wanting to avoid mistakes is natural,” he noted, but he also pointed out that true growth often stems from those very errors. Parents, he explained, can find joy in the moments that challenge them, leading to deeper connections with their children.
As Altman continues to explore the balance between traditional parenting methods and modern technology, he recognizes that while tools like ChatGPT can provide useful advice—such as “How much tummy time should my 3-month-old get every day?” or “How can I get my tween to fall asleep before 11 p.m.?”—they cannot guarantee perfection.
The Role of Technology in Modern Parenting
The reliance on AI tools in parenting raises questions about the evolving role of technology in family dynamics. Altman’s acknowledgment of his dependency on ChatGPT highlights a significant shift in how parents approach child-rearing today. He admitted, “I have relied on it so much. I mean, it’s obviously the most important thing to happen in my life, so it’s top of mind, and I use it all the time.”
Despite the advantages of technology, Altman’s experiences underscore a universal truth: parenting is not about achieving perfection but about making choices. He pointed out that every decision—whether seen as a mistake or a success—contributes to the rich tapestry of a child’s upbringing.
The journey of parenting involves navigating a winding road filled with uncertainties. Altman’s perspective is a reminder that embracing vulnerability and accepting imperfections can lead to deeper connections and greater understanding between parents and their children. As he continues to explore this path, his insights resonate with many who are navigating similar challenges, illustrating that the essence of parenting lies not in avoiding mistakes, but in fostering growth through them.
