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 can help you understand where AI is being used. Look for signs such as:
- labels like 'AI-generated' or 'powered by AI'
- fast responses that rely on short, focused prompts or commands
- content that includes links or references to sources.
AI features may appear in games, homework tools, and creative platforms.
2. Talk about what AI can and can’t do
Try explaining that AI can be helpful but doesn’t always get things right. You could use questions like:
- "Do you think this answer makes sense?"
- "Why do you think this video was recommended?"
3. Watch out for AI-generated content
Help children spot signs of fake images or robotic language and encourage them to ask questions if something feels ‘strange’. You could both look out for clues such as:
- body parts that appear distorted, blurred, or out of proportion
- movements that seem unnatural or don’t match the context
- backgrounds that look inconsistent or poorly blended.
4. Explore AI tools together
5. Set boundaries and expectations
It can help to agree as a family on when it’s okay to use AI for schoolwork and remind children that AI is a tool, not a replacement for learning or effort.
Setting clear boundaries around how AI should be used can help ensure children use it respectfully and safely.
Explain that using AI to bully, embarrass, or harm others (such as creating fake messages or images) is never acceptable. And reinforce that misuse of AI can have serious consequences, both socially and legally.
6. Help your child understand what’s appropriate to share
Explain that AI tools are not the same as trusted adults. Encourage your child to:
- avoid sharing personal details like their full name, address, school, or photos
- use AI for creative ideas or learning, but not for advice on worries, feelings, or safety concerns
- talk to you or another trusted adult instead of an AI tool If they feel upset, scared, or unsure about something online
- get support from Childline. We have lots of online advice and our counsellors are available over the phone or by email or chat.
7. Model positive behaviour and critical thinking
- "Does this seem accurate?"
- "Where did this information come from?"
- "Is this a fair or respectful way to use this tool?"
8. Know what to do if harmful or fake content is created about your child
If you discover abusive or fake AI-generated content involving your child, act quickly.
- Take screenshots or save links as evidence.
- Report the content to the platform where it appears using their reporting tools.
- Together with your child, you can request for it to be removed from the internet through our Report Remove tool
- If the content is threatening or illegal, contact the police and seek advice from your child’s school or safeguarding lead.
- Talk to your child calmly, reassure them it’s not their fault, and explain the steps you’re taking to protect them.
Staying safe and informed together
AI is here to stay, and children will grow up using it in many parts of their lives.
By talking openly, exploring together, and setting clear boundaries, parents and carers can help children enjoy the benefits of AI while staying safe and informed.
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 help@NSPCC.org.uk
