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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a regular part of children’s online experiences. From chatbots and homework apps to creative tools, AI can offer exciting opportunities for learning and play.
But it also brings risks, especially when children aren’t sure what’s real, who they’re talking to, or how AI works.
Many parents and carers feel unsure about how to explain AI to children. This guide offers practical advice to help families talk about AI in ways that build understanding, encourage curiosity, and keep children safe.
What is AI?
AI stands for Artificial Intelligence – computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. Children may already be using AI without realising it, as many popular tools and platforms now include AI features.
Examples include generative tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini, which can help with writing, coding, and problem-solving. And the Snapchat AI chatbot, that interacts with users in real time.
Common AI examples include:
- chatbots that answer questions or simulate conversations
- generative tools that create images, stories, or music
- deepfake technology that can produce realistic but fake videos or voices
- AI summaries on search results which offer a quick answer with links to sources.
It is becoming increasingly common for AI to be built into popular apps, devices and websites. It’s important to check which apps and services your child uses and whether they include AI features.
Opportunities for creativity and learning with AI
When used safely and responsibly, AI can support children's development in several meaningful ways.
Creative tools that generate art, music, or stories can inspire imagination and self-expression, helping children explore ideas and build confidence.
AI-powered learning apps also support core subjects like spelling, maths, and coding, often adapting to individual learning styles and offering personalised feedback.
Games and platforms that use AI can encourage strategic thinking and problem-solving by presenting challenges that require planning and decision-making.
And AI can improve accessibility for children with SEND through features like speech-to-text and tailored learning pathways, helping to remove barriers and promote inclusion.
What are the potential risks of AI for children?
While AI can be fun and helpful, it also poses risks that children may not fully understand. So it’s smart to be aware of these potential pitfalls.
- Manipulation – AI can be used to create convincing but false content, which may influence children’s beliefs or decisions.
- Misinformation – AI-generated answers or videos may look accurate but contain errors or misleading information.
- Identity confusion – children may struggle to tell whether they’re interacting with a real person or an AI system.
- Exposure to harmful content – some AI tools may generate inappropriate or upsetting material.
- Cyberbullying and harassment – AI can be used to mimic voices or create fake messages which could be used to cause harm and distress.
- Privacy and data security – AI tools often collect data, and children may not know what’s being stored and shared
- AI-generated abuse and sextortion – in rare but serious cases, AI can be misused to create abusive and illegal content.
- AI-generated sexualised or abusive images – some children may use AI tools to create fake nude or sexualised images of others, often referred to as 'nudification' or 'deepfakes'. Even if the image is not real, it can cause serious emotional harm, reputational damage, and may be illegal if it involves anyone under 18.
Eight practical ways parents and carers can support children
1. Explore the apps and websites your child uses
This helps you see where AI appears, from games to homework tools. Look for labels like ‘AI-generated’, fast prompt-based responses, or content linking to sources.
2. Talk about what AI can and can’t do
Explain that AI can be useful but isn’t always accurate. Ask your child simple questions such as “Do you think this answer makes sense?” or “Why do you think this was suggested?” to build understanding.
3. Watch out for AI-generated content
Encourage children to question anything that feels unusual, such as distorted images or unnatural movement. Remind them not everything online is trustworthy and to check reliable sources. Spotting AI content will become harder over time as the technology advances.
4. Explore AI tools together
Try tools like image generators or learning apps as a shared activity and talk about how they work and where they get their information.
5. Set boundaries and expectations
It can help to agree as a family on when it’s ok to use AI for schoolwork and reinforce that it supports learning, and doesn’t replace it. Make clear that using AI to harm others, such as bullying or creating fake messages or images, is unacceptable and can have serious consequences.
6. Help your child understand what’s appropriate to share
Explain that AI tools aren’t trusted adults. Encourage them not to share personal information and to come to you or another adult if they’re worried, rather than relying on AI for support. They can get support from Childline on the phone, by email or through one-to-one online chat.
7. Model positive behaviour and critical thinking
Show how you question and use AI responsibly. Thinking aloud about accuracy, sources and fairness can help children develop good habits and feel confident asking for help.
8. Know what to do if harmful or fake content is created about your child
If you discover fake or abusive AI content involving your child, act quickly. Save evidence, report it to the platform, and seek removal. You can request for it to be removed from the internet through our Report Remove tool. Contact the police if needed and reassure your child while taking action.
Worried about a child?
If you need guidance or support with an issue affecting children, you can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected]
