AI explained in a child-friendly wayHow parents can support their children in dealing with artificial intelligence

Many children come into contact with artificial intelligence (AI) as early as primary school age. Be it through voice assistants, learning apps or initial experiences with chatbots. Children often use these technologies as a matter of course without understanding exactly how they work. We have compiled numerous resources for parents that provide children with age-appropriate information on the new technology of artificial intelligence. We also provide tips on how parents can support their children in dealing with AI.

When young children are already using AI, an important question arises for parents: how can we help our children to use AI sensibly and safely? In addition to the many opportunities - such as learning, discovering and creative experimentation - there are also risks, for example due to incorrect information or inappropriate content.

This makes it all the more important to provide child-friendly content that explains what AI actually is, how it works and where its limits lie. Age-appropriate videos, quiz formats or comprehensible texts can help children to gain initial access to this complex topic. And they support parents in talking about it with their children. We have put together some recommended links below.

First of all, however, it is important that parents do not leave their children alone when it comes to using AI and prepare them appropriately for their age. We have compiled a list of important things for you in the following tips.

How can I support my child?

Try out AI chatbots and AI companions together with your child.
Explore how AI chatbots and AI companions work together with your child. This makes it easier to understand the course of conversations with these systems. It also allows you to identify and then discuss possible opportunities and risks.
Talk to your child about what an AI bot can and cannot do.
AI chatbots and AI companions are easily accessible and are available around the clock for many concerns. Together with your child, consider in which situations and on which topics such services can be helpful as a point of contact, where there are limits and when their content becomes problematic.
Sensitize your child not to disclose any personal data.
AI bots can save everything you write to them - including personal data such as name, address, photos or information on (mental) health. Therefore, make it clear to your child how important data protection is when using AI services.
Ensure a balanced use of AI and encourage regular activities with friends.
To avoid excessive use, children and young people should be given plenty of opportunities to spend time away from the digital world. Activities such as playing together outdoors, going on outings, playing sports or meeting up with friends strengthen social relationships and promote the development of key social skills. Support your child in discovering, developing and maintaining real friendships.
Set parental controls.
If your child wants to use an AI chatbot, check whether they have already reached the minimum age. In addition to talking about the risks of using AI, you can also make technical safety settings. To do this, look for keywords such as "parental controls" or "parental guidance" in the service settings.

These tips are taken from our Parents' brochure "My child and AI - Growing up with artificial proximity". However, this is only a small selection. You can find all the tips and lots more information for parents in the full brochure, which you can order from us free of charge as a print version or download as a PDF.

Link tips on the topic of AI for parents and children

Last updated: 2026-04-242026-04-24

For parents

AI for children explained in video formats

AI explained for children in texts

Quiz for children

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