Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday life for children and teenagers—whether it’s through homework help, gaming, social media, or even emotional support.
Many young people are now using AI chatbots like ChatGPT, virtual companions, and “friend” apps that can hold conversations, answer questions, and even seem to offer emotional support. While these tools can be useful, they also raise important internet safety concerns for parents.
So, are AI chatbots a helpful learning tool—or a hidden risk?
The answer is: both.
What Are AI Chatbots and Companion Bots?
AI chatbots are programs designed to simulate human conversation. Some are built for productivity and learning, like ChatGPT, while others are designed to act more like friends, companions, or even virtual partners.
These “companion bots” can:
- chat like a real person
- remember past conversations
- offer advice or encouragement
- respond emotionally
- roleplay relationships
- provide friendship or comfort
For children and teens, this can feel exciting, engaging, and sometimes incredibly personal.
Why Are Kids Using Them?
There are many reasons young people are drawn to AI companions:
Homework Help
Many students use AI tools for school support—asking questions, getting explanations, or help with assignments.
Curiosity and Entertainment
Kids often enjoy testing what AI can do, asking funny questions, or using bots for storytelling and games.
Emotional Support
Some young people use companion bots when they feel lonely, anxious, or misunderstood.
Social Confidence
For shy teens, talking to an AI can feel easier than talking to real people.
This is where parents should pay closer attention.
The Hidden Risks Parents Should Know
While AI tools can be helpful, unsupervised use can create real problems.
1. Unsafe or Inappropriate Conversations
Not all AI chatbots are designed for children.
Some companion bots have weak age checks and poor moderation. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has raised concerns that some AI services allowed access to sexual content, harmful advice, and unsafe responses to self-harm discussions.
Children may be exposed to conversations that are far beyond what is age-appropriate.
2. Emotional Dependency
Some children begin treating AI bots like real friends.
Because these bots are available 24/7, always respond, and never judge, kids can become emotionally attached. This may affect real-world friendships, social development, and emotional resilience.
An AI friend may feel comforting—but it cannot replace genuine human connection.
3. Privacy and Personal Information
Children may overshare personal details with AI tools.
They might reveal:
- full names
- school names
- home locations
- family issues
- passwords
- private photos
- emotional struggles
Many children do not realise that chats may be stored, reviewed, or used for training systems.
4. Misinformation and Poor Advice
AI can sound confident even when it is wrong.
Whether it’s advice about school, friendships, health, or mental wellbeing, children may trust the bot too easily because it “sounds smart.”
This can lead to poor decisions based on inaccurate information.
5. Replacing Trusted Adults
If children turn to AI first for emotional support, they may stop seeking help from parents, teachers, or counsellors.
This can be especially concerning during times of stress, bullying, friendship issues, or mental health struggles.
How Parents Can Help
The goal isn’t to ban AI completely—it’s to teach safe and healthy use.
Start the Conversation
Ask your child:
- Have you used AI chatbots before?
- Which apps are you using?
- What do you usually ask them?
- Do any of them feel like “friends”?
Keep the conversation open and non-judgmental.
Set Boundaries
Just like social media, AI tools need boundaries.
Consider:
- age-appropriate apps only
- using chatbots in shared family spaces
- no late-night companion bot use
- no sharing personal details
Teach Critical Thinking
Help children understand:
“Just because AI says it, doesn’t mean it’s true.”
Encourage them to double-check information and come to parents or trusted adults for important advice.
Prioritise Real Human Connection
AI should support life—not replace it.
Encourage friendships, family conversations, sport, hobbies, and offline confidence-building.
Real relationships matter most.
Final Thoughts
AI chatbots are here to stay, and they will become an even bigger part of childhood in the years ahead.
Used well, they can support learning and creativity.
Used without guidance, they can create confusion, risk, and emotional harm.
The best protection is not fear—it’s awareness.
By staying involved, asking questions, and teaching safe habits, parents can help children enjoy the benefits of AI without falling into the hidden risks.
Because when it comes to online safety, connection with a trusted adult will always be more powerful than connection with a chatbot.
