Kids and AI: How adults can respond now

A Pew survey found 64% of teens use AI chatbots, and education researchers say parents, schools and lawmakers each have roles in guiding children's use while product safeguards and legislation continue to develop.

Children are exploring AI tools widely and often without adult oversight. Surveys and studies show high uptake among older children and strong curiosity among younger ones. Researchers warn that exploration without guidance can lead to academic misuse, incorrect information, or inappropriate interactions with chatbots. Schools are trying to adapt policies while technology and regulations are still evolving. What we know: - A Pew survey is reported to find that 64 percent of teens use AI chatbots, with nearly 3 in 10 using them daily. - A LEGO study is reported to find that 90 percent of children ages 8 to 14 want to learn more about using AI. - A Common Sense Media survey is reported to show only 37 percent of parents were aware of their teen’s AI use and 45 percent had discussed generative AI with their teens. - The article notes educators’ concerns about plagiarism, reliance on incorrect information, and the risk of inappropriate chatbot interactions. - Lawmakers and companies are taking steps: a House subcommittee advanced 18 child online safety bills in December, the GUARD Act (S.3062) was introduced in 2025, and Common Sense Media and OpenAI announced support for California’s Parents & Kids Safe AI Act in January. Summary: Researchers describe widespread use of AI by children alongside gaps in awareness and protections, and they highlight overlapping roles for parents, schools and policymakers. Ongoing legislative proposals and emerging product guardrails are noted as part of the response, and the situation is described as evolving rather than settled.