Using artificial intelligence
How to help children use AI safely
As more children and young people use artificial intelligence (AI) for schoolwork, advice and companionship, they’ll need support on using tools safely.
Explore this collection of resources to help you support age-appropriate use and keep children safer.
Quick tips
5 tips to help children navigate AI safely
Before letting your child explore AI tools on their own, consider first using different tools together. Try out child-friendly AI tools so you can see how they work, answer their questions and set expectations for safe use.
Like with anything your child does online, talking about AI can help keep them safer while using the tools. In your chats, talk about the amazing things AI can do along with the limitations.
Remind them that just because AI chatbots’ responses sound human, it is not the same as interacting with a real person.
Learn how different types of AI work to help you have these conversations.
Demonstrate critical thinking by questioning the information AI generates. Ask your child to think about whether something is true and show them how to double check.
When using tools together, ask your child to think about why the tool provided the response it did. Is there any information missing? Ask them to consider if they’re using the tool appropriately.
Help your child develop good habits around using AI by setting clear boundaries. Decide when, where and how they can use AI tools. For example, you might be okay with them using AI chatbots for entertainment but not with Maths work.
Set clear expectations to support your child’s understanding of AI use.
Talk to children about personal information and what that looks like. Remind them to keep that personal information to themselves. You can also customise data collection within the tools they use.
If something confuses or worries them, encourage them to come to you.
Learn more about AI safety
Children and adults alike encounter artificial intelligence in a range of ways. From chatbots to content moderation and search engine overviews, there’s a lot to learn.
Choose where you’d like to start.
What is AI and is it safe?
AI takes many forms online, and children might even come across it without knowing. Learn about the risks and benefits to support your child’s safety.
How to use AI safely
Confident enough to use AI? See how you can use it with children to support their safety and media literacy as a parent, carer or teacher.
What the research says
Explore Me, Myself & I, a report that dives into children’s use of AI chatbots along with advice to ensure safety initiatives keep up with this evolving technology.
Featured AI resources to share
You can find a range of resources related to artificial intelligence in each of the sections within this guide.
However, if you’re looking for specific resources to explore and share, the following guides, lessons and activities can help.
Our latest articles on artificial intelligence
Press release
New report reveals how risky and unchecked AI chatbots are the new ‘go to’ for millions of children
Our new report reveals that the majority of children are using AI chatbots, but many don't question if they're reliable
Research
Me, myself and AI chatbot research
Explore findings around children's use of AI chatbots and the impacts it could have on their digital wellbeing.
Expert opinion
Young people’s digital relationships: AI bots and characters
Cath Knibbs shares insight into young people's growing relationships with AI bots and companions.
News & blogs
What is undress AI? Guidance for parents and carers
Artificial intelligence continues to increase in ability and technology. Undress AI is one example that could leave young people open to harm.
Parent stories
One parent’s experience using artificial intelligence as a family
See how one mum's family uses artificial intelligence (AI) in their day-to-day life, and see her advice on keeping children safe.