The Hidden Risks of Artificial Intelligence for Children: What Parents Need to Know

By Boncopia Editorial Team | June 12, 2025 | Category: Social Values | Subcategory: Science, AI, and Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s woven into our daily lives, from virtual assistants like Siri to personalized learning apps. For families, AI offers exciting opportunities, helping children with homework, sparking creativity, or simply entertaining them. But as AI becomes a constant companion for kids, it’s crucial to understand its potential risks. FRANCE 24’s Guillaume Gougeon, alongside France 2 colleagues, recently highlighted this growing concern, emphasizing the need for parents and children to navigate AI thoughtfully. In this post, we’ll explore the risks of AI for children, backed by recent insights, and share practical tips to ensure safe use—all while keeping your family’s values and digital well-being in mind.

Why AI Matters for Kids

AI is transforming how children learn, play, and interact. From AI-powered educational tools that adapt to a child’s learning pace to chatbots that answer endless “why” questions, the benefits are undeniable. A 2024 report from Internet Matters found that 40% of children, including half of 13-14-year-olds, are already engaging with generative AI tools like ChatGPT for schoolwork. Kids see AI as a helpful ally, with 41% believing it will boost their education.

But with great power comes great responsibility. While AI can enhance learning, its unchecked use poses risks that could impact children’s safety, development, and well-being. Let’s dive into the key concerns every parent should know.

The Risks of AI for Children

1. Misinformation and Deepfakes: Blurring Reality

AI’s ability to generate realistic content can confuse young minds. Tools like Google Gemini or deepfake apps can produce misleading information or fake images/videos that kids struggle to distinguish from reality. For example, a 2024 Mobicip report noted that Google’s Bard generated false claims on topics like vaccines and climate change without disclaimers. This misinformation can shape children’s beliefs and decision-making.

Deepfakes are especially alarming. Bad actors can manipulate photos from social media to create harmful content, leading to cyberbullying or even sextortion. A recent FBI alert highlighted an uptick in AI-generated explicit images targeting minors, underscoring the urgency of this issue.

Tip for Parents: Teach kids to question online content. Use tools like Mobicip to monitor their digital activity and discuss how to spot fake information.

2. Privacy Breaches: Data in the Wrong Hands

AI systems often collect vast amounts of data, including children’s voices, search histories, and even photos. UNICEF’s 2021 report on AI and children warned that these systems can blur privacy lines, especially when kids interact with chatbots that seem human-like. Without proper safeguards, this data could be misused by companies or malicious actors.

For instance, Snapchat’s My AI, used by 51% of UK children aged 7-17, raises concerns about how personal information is stored and shared. Parents may not realize that seemingly innocent apps could expose their kids’ data.

Tip for Parents: Check privacy settings on AI apps and opt for platforms with transparent data policies. Talk to kids about not sharing personal details with AI tools.

3. Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM): A Dark Threat

One of the most disturbing risks is AI’s role in generating child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The Child Rescue Coalition reported in 2024 that AI algorithms can create lifelike, fabricated explicit content involving minors. The Internet Watch Foundation further noted that AI can alter real images to evade detection, making it harder for law enforcement to act.

This content not only harms victims but also fuels online grooming and exploitation. Posts on X have echoed this concern, with users like@ShaelentHill citing cases of AI deepfakes driving bullying and tragic outcomes among teens.

Tip for Parents: Use parental control software to block harmful content. Report suspicious activity to platforms and authorities immediately.

4. Mental Health and Addiction: The Emotional Toll

AI-powered apps and games often use persuasive algorithms to keep kids hooked, leading to excessive screen time. The Secure Children’s Network (2023) warned that this can foster addictive behaviors, anxiety, and low self-esteem as kids compare themselves to AI-curated, idealized online personas. Filter bubbles created by AI can also limit exposure to diverse perspectives, shaping narrow worldviews.

A 2025 European Journal of Pediatrics study raised the concept of “mental malnutrition,” where overreliance on AI reduces cognitive engagement, potentially lowering IQ and critical thinking skills. X user@handofTiamat expressed a similar fear, suggesting that heavy AI exposure could impair children’s ability to discern reality.

Tip for Parents: Set screen time limits and encourage offline activities. Foster open conversations about how social media and AI make kids feel.

5. Social and Cognitive Development: Missing Human Connection

AI can simulate interactions, but it can’t replace human relationships. Harvard’s Ying Xu (2024) noted that while AI companions can boost learning, they lack the emotional depth of human engagement, which is vital for social etiquette and language development. Overreliance on AI chatbots could hinder kids’ ability to form meaningful connections.

UNICEF’s 2021 research also highlighted that AI’s human-like tone might confuse children, impacting their perceptions of intelligence and social behavior during key developmental stages.

Tip for Parents: Balance AI use with face-to-face interactions. Encourage kids to ask questions and engage with real people, not just AI.

How Parents Can Protect Kids in an AI-Driven World

The risks are real, but they don’t mean families should avoid AI altogether. Instead, proactive steps can help kids harness AI’s benefits safely:

• Build AI Literacy: Teach children how AI works in simple terms. Resources like the AI Literacy Toolkit from Common Sense Education can guide age-appropriate conversations.

• Set Boundaries: Use parental controls and monitor AI app usage. Tools like Mobicip or Qustodio offer robust safety features.

• Encourage Critical Thinking: Help kids question AI-generated content and cross-check information with trusted sources.

• Advocate for Regulation: Support policies that prioritize child safety in AI development, as suggested by the Children’s Commissioner for England (2024).

• Model Healthy Use: Show kids how to use AI responsibly by setting a positive example in your own tech habits.

The Bigger Picture: AI and Society’s Values

AI’s impact on children reflects broader questions about technology’s role in our lives. As FRANCE 24’s Guillaume Gougeon reported, families must weigh AI’s convenience against its risks to ensure it aligns with their values. The 2025 International AI Safety Report emphasized the need for a shared global understanding of AI risks, calling for ethical guidelines to protect vulnerable users like children.

At Boncopia, we believe in fostering a world where technology uplifts humanity while safeguarding the well-being of future generations. By staying informed and engaged, parents can guide kids through the AI revolution with confidence.

Final Thoughts

AI is here to stay, and its influence on children will only grow. While it offers incredible tools for learning and creativity, the risks—from misinformation and privacy breaches to mental health challenges and CSAM—demand attention. By understanding these dangers and taking proactive steps, parents can help kids navigate AI safely and responsibly.

What do you think about AI’s role in your child’s life? Are you concerned about its risks, or do you see it as a valuable tool? How can we balance innovation with child safety in an AI-driven world? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear from you!

Sources:

• FRANCE 24, “What are the risks of artificial intelligence for children?” (2025)

• Internet Matters, “Artificially Intelligent?” (2024)

• UNICEF, “Children and AI” (2021)

• Child Rescue Coalition, “The Dark Side of AI” (2024)

• Mobicip, “AI’s Impact on Kids” (2024)

• European Journal of Pediatrics, “Will AI impair children’s minds?” (2025)

• Harvard Graduate School of Education, “The Impact of AI on Children’s Development” (2024)

• Posts on X reflecting public sentiment (2025)