A fresh study titled “Me, Myself & AI” explores how kids interact with AI-powered chatbots—from helping with homework to providing emotional support. This trend brings exciting opportunities as well as new risks in parenting technology use Internet Matters.

Key Findings

• Chatbots act as informal tutors, explaining science and spelling.
• Kids often use them as digital friends—asking personal questions or sharing feelings.
• Parental attitudes range from supportive to skeptical, depending on device controls and app origins.

Benefits & Concerns

Benefits:

1. Homework Aid: Instant help reinforces learning.
2. Emotional Outlet: Some children feel comfortable sharing with chatbots.
3. Digital Literacy: Early experience with AI fosters understanding.

Risks:

• Privacy & Accuracy: Children can share personal data and get wrong answers.
• Overreliance: Becomes a substitute for parent interaction or face-to-face learning.
• Bias Issues: Chatbots may exhibit biases reflected from training data.

Parenting Tips

• Set privacy filters and limit chatbot access.
• Review responses with your child—encourage critical thinking.
• Use chatbots as tools, not replacements for human guidance.
• Teach about data safety—no personal info sharing.

Conclusion

AI chatbots are becoming part of children’s digital landscape—helpful allies when used thoughtfully, but potentially harmful if unmanaged. Parents who set boundaries and context can turn this tech into a safe, enriching asset.

Q&A Section

Q1: Should parents monitor chatbot chats?
A1: Yes—help detect errors, bias, or unsafe interaction early.

Q2: Are any chatbots kid-safe by design?
A2: Some apps provide child-specific modes and safety filters, but parents still need to review responses.

Sources:

• Internet Matters report on “Me, Myself & AI” The Advertiser+1The Economic Times+1arXivThe TimesInternet Matters