A comprehensive study examining children’s interactions with AI chatbots reveals both opportunities and concerns for parents and educators. The research indicates that while AI chatbots can offer educational benefits and companionship, they also present potential risks that require careful parental oversight. Children are increasingly using AI chatbots for homework help, emotional support, and entertainment, but experts warn about privacy concerns, potential misinformation, and the impact on social development. The study emphasizes that children may have difficulty distinguishing between AI and human interactions, potentially affecting their ability to develop genuine human relationships. Key recommendations include setting clear boundaries for AI usage, maintaining open discussions about AI’s limitations, and actively monitoring children’s interactions with these tools. Parents are advised to treat AI chatbots as educational tools rather than emotional substitutes and to establish age-appropriate guidelines for usage. The research also highlights the importance of digital literacy education to help children understand the difference between AI and human interactions. While acknowledging AI’s potential benefits in education and learning support, the study concludes that parental involvement and guidance are crucial in ensuring safe and productive AI interactions for children.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/parents-kids-ai-chatbots-apps-danger-benefits-study-how-to-2025-03