How Will Artificial Intelligence (AI) Affect Children?

As child health experts at UNICEF have pointed out, kids around the world use AI almost daily. Most interactive toys, games and internet platforms made for children depend on AI technology. Even though AI is advancing faster than anyone expected, most nations have not considered how AI will affect the social and emotional well-being of children.

What are the benefits of AI for kids and families?

1. It’s a valuable tool for learning : AI can be used to tailor lessons and learning experiences to the individual needs of young children and teens. It can help educators and parents find ways to enrich learning for kids of all abilities at different stages of growth and development. And while it’s not a good substitute for live conversation, it can help children improve their language skills and even learn new languages.

2. It can foster creativity : We live in a visual world, so kids need ways to express their ideas through photos, images, graphs and more. AI is not only valuable to budding artists, but also kids who want to create data displays, charts, simple cartoons and other visuals.

3. It may motivate and engage kids in new ways : AI can be interactive and fun for kids, offering new ways to enjoy and explore their world. For some, this may be a life-changing experience that opens new doors, enhances school performance and helps prepare them for the challenges of adult life.

What are potential dangers of AI for our kids?

1.They can spread hate, bias and stereotypes : Because AI “learns” from everything it finds on the internet, AI platforms reflect the same prejudices that threaten to divide and alienate us. Extensive studies show that AI-generated content advances stereotypes and falsehoods. Adults must be ready to talk with kids about what they see online and how it might reinforce negative beliefs and actions.

2.They can erode privacy : AI collects a huge amount of data about us, often without us knowing it. For example, one toy was found to record conversations among parents, kids and anyone else nearby, with the ability to transmit data from these conversations to third parties.

3.They can flood kids with selling messages : AI follows us on the internet, making note of what we like and serving us more of the same. Your child’s search history may make them the target of relentless ad campaigns you would prefer they not see.

What can we do to monitor our child from the risks of AI?

Educate Yourself and Your Child :

• Learn About AI: Understand the basics of AI and its applications, including both the benefits and potential risks.
• Discuss with Your Child: Have open conversations about how AI works, the ways it’s integrated into everyday life, and the potential dangers such as privacy issues and misinformation.

Monitor and Control Screen Time :

• Set Limits : Establish clear rules about screen time and ensure that your child’s usage of AI-powered devices and applications is balanced with other activities.
• Use Parental Controls : Utilize parental control features available on devices and platforms to monitor and limit your child’s exposure to inappropriate content and ensure safe usage.

Privacy Protection :

• Data Privacy : Teach your child the importance of keeping personal information private and the potential risks of sharing it online.
• Review App Permissions : Regularly check the permissions granted to apps on your child’s devices and restrict unnecessary access to personal data.

Stay Informed :

• Keep Up with Trends : Stay updated on the latest developments in AI and how they might affect children. This includes new apps, games, and educational tools that use AI.
• Community Resources : Utilize resources from schools, parent groups, and online communities to share knowledge and strategies for managing AI risks.

By taking these steps, you can help your child navigate the digital world more safely and responsibly, mitigating the risks posed by AI while allowing them to benefit from its advantages.

GOOD LUCK !