The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) by children and adolescents is increasing, with recent research from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) highlighting both the benefits and risks associated with this technology at different stages of childhood development. The findings were published in the journal Pediatrics.
A 2025 study cited in the review found that 72% of American adolescents have interacted with AI chatbots as companions. Despite ongoing efforts to develop policies and safety measures to prevent harmful outputs from generative AI, these protections are not foolproof. Researchers stress the importance of parents and caregivers guiding children in responsible technology use, particularly as advancements continue rapidly.
“It is critical to emphasize that AI is a tool, not a companion, and we need to make sure we are instilling healthy AI literacy and social development in children,” said Robert Grundmeier, MD, Section Chief of Informatics and acting Chief Research Informatics Officer at CHOP. “Children, particularly in early and middle childhood, may not be able to distinguish between AI and human interaction and are at risk of developing incorrect mental models of social relationships if they view AI as a friend. It’s important that pediatricians and parents understand where generative AI should be fitting into a developing child’s life.”
The review examined how generative AI impacts various age groups:
For early childhood (0-5 years), interactive storytelling powered by AI can support language learning but young children may struggle to differentiate between human interaction and AI responses. Researchers recommend prioritizing human engagement during this stage; parents should co-view content with their children to encourage discussion.
In middle childhood (6-11 years), generative AI offers opportunities for personalized learning experiences and creative activities like art or writing. However, children may find it difficult to identify misinformation produced by AI or might rely on it for completing assignments. Parents are encouraged to foster critical thinking about information provided by AI.
Among adolescents (12 years or older), generative AI can help develop digital literacy skills or assist with processes such as college selection. Some evidence suggests that companionship via AI could address feelings of loneliness but might also reduce face-to-face interactions. Additionally, there are concerns about inadequate safeguards when adolescents turn to generative AIs for mental health advice or sensitive topics like suicide prevention.
Alexander Fiks, MD, MSCE emphasized the role caregivers play: “Pediatric caregivers can emphasize the importance of close supervision of AI interactions for younger children and shared review of AI-generated content, and parents should understand that AI generated information might be helpful but is no replacement for human expertise or clinical judgment. Parents should keep a critical eye on any AI-generated information and instill those same critical thinking skills into their children.”
“Parents, pediatricians and policymakers are responsible for shaping how generative AI technologies are integrated into children’s lives,” said Alexander Fiks again. “This rapidly growing field is going to require continuous research to inform parental guidance and policy to maximize the benefits of these tools while doing everything to mitigate potential harms and keep children safe.”
The authors conclude that continued research will be necessary as generative artificial intelligence becomes more common among young users.
