Human Raised… Dr. Dana Suskind on Protecting Human Connection in the Age of AI

Recorded live at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, this Early Childhood Education Summit session presented by Valhalla Foundation featured Dana Suskind, Co-Founder and Director at the TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health, University of Chicago.Dana Suskind explored how protecting human connection has remained essential in early childhood development amid the rapid rise of AI. She discussed the foundational role of human relationships, language, and interaction in shaping children’s cognitive and emotional growth, while examining how technology can support—but not replace—the critical importance of human-centered development. The session highlighted the need to safeguard meaningful connection as innovation advances, ensuring that early learning remains rooted in the relationships that help children thrive.