Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept. From voice assistants to chatbots built into social media, AI is now part of children’s everyday lives. It shapes how they learn, play, and interact online.
When AI Crosses the Line
A recent Reuters investigation revealed that Meta’s internal AI policies permitted chatbots to engage children in romantic conversations, spread false medical information, and even generate racist arguments. Although Meta has since removed some of these guidelines, the case highlights a crucial truth: AI is already influencing children in ways that parents cannot fully control.
Why This Matters for Families
Children are naturally curious and trusting. When interacting with AI systems, they may not question whether an answer is true, appropriate, or safe. This creates several risks:
- Exposure to harmful or biased content that can shape their worldview.
- False information that can influence health, safety, or learning.
- Developing habits of dependency, relying on AI for answers without critical thinking.
The issue is not simply about restricting access to AI. It is about preparing children to navigate a digital world where AI will increasingly shape the information they see and the experiences they have.
The Role of Education
Teaching children how to interact with AI is as important as teaching them how to cross the road safely. They need to understand:
- That AI does not always tell the truth.
- That responses can reflect hidden biases.
- That checking information with a trusted adult remains essential.
When children develop this awareness, they are less likely to be misled and more likely to use AI constructively.
How Parents Can Help
Parents play a central role in shaping how children experience AI. Three simple practices make a difference:
- Explore together – Use AI with your child, asking questions side by side.
- Encourage discussion – Talk about whether answers make sense, where they come from, and why they may be wrong.
- Model balance – Show that AI is a tool, not a replacement for curiosity, creativity, or human judgment.
This guidance builds confidence and equips children with the habits they need for safe, responsible use.
Looking Ahead
The Reuters report reminds us that even the biggest tech companies do not always prioritise child safety in AI design. Families cannot rely solely on corporate policies to keep children safe. Instead, they need education, conversation, and strong relationships to ensure AI becomes a tool for growth rather than harm.
Children do not just need protection from AI. They need the skills to question it, the confidence to use it responsibly, and the support of parents who guide them every step of the way.
Parents Also Ask:
Is AI appropriate for kids?
AI can be educational and fun for kids, helping with learning, creativity, and problem-solving. However, some AI content may be inappropriate or misleading, so supervision is important.
How to keep kids safe from AI?
- Use kid-friendly AI platforms.
- Enable parental controls and content filters.
- Educate kids about not sharing personal information.
- Discuss critical thinking and how AI may make mistakes.
Minimum age to use AI?
Most AI platforms require users to be 13+ (or 16+ in some regions) due to privacy laws like COPPA and GDPR, and it is recommended that children use AI under parental guidance.
