Beyond the Hype: Practical AI Literacy for Elementary Classrooms

What does meaningful AI literacy actually look like in a K-5 classroom, and where do you even begin? This poster session moves beyond the buzzwords to share practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for introducing AI concepts to young learners. Discover what AI literacy means in an elementary setting, how it differs from general technology use, and how to explain at a conceptual level how AI systems work. Through real classroom examples, see how students can engage with AI as curious explorers, thoughtful questioners and creative problem-solvers, and learn accessible ways to teach key ideas such as training data, bias and responsible use. Explore ready-to-use lesson ideas, cross-curricular connections and tools that fit into existing curriculum with no advanced technical expertise required. The session also tackles common challenges, including student misconceptions about AI, managing student use, evaluating tools and ensuring equitable access. Whether you are just getting started or deepening your practice, you will leave with concrete strategies, sample activities and a confident first step toward purposeful AI literacy.