Parenting in the Age of AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere – from smart assistants in our homes to chatbots, gaming platforms, and social media. While AI can make life easier, educational, and even entertaining, it’s also changing how children interact online, and not always in ways that are safe.
Understanding these risks is the first step in keeping kids safe. Just as parents once needed to monitor playgrounds and schoolyards, the digital world now demands the same attention. Unlike traditional dangers, AI can operate invisibly, blending into everyday interactions and sometimes appearing trustworthy – especially to children.
How AI Can Be Used to Groom Children
AI chatbots and online tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated. They can mimic personalities to seem relatable, adapt their responses based on a child’s age or mood, and build emotional connections that feel genuine.
While these tools can be fun or educational, predators can exploit them. AI can help offenders start conversations, gain trust, and manipulate children, all in ways that are hard for parents to detect.
A study by Toronto Metropolitan University[1] found that many children perceive AI chatbots as trustworthy and often share personal information without fully understanding the implications. This opens the door for potential exploitation, highlighting the need for awareness and early intervention.
Signs to Watch For
Parents don’t need to monitor every click, but noticing patterns and subtle changes can make a big difference. Key warning signs include:
- Children spending substantial time talking to AI-enabled platforms or messaging apps.
- Secrecy around devices or communications.
- Emotional attachment to online “friends” they refuse to discuss.
- Unexplained changes in behavior, mood, or self-esteem.
Practical Tips for Parents:
- Keep conversations open. Ask questions like, “Who are you chatting with today?” or “What games are you playing online?” without judgment.
- Determine and discuss safe digital boundaries together, like designated screen times or device-free zones.
- Encourage your child to speak up if someone online makes them uncomfortable.
Children are more likely to share their online experiences when they feel heard and not interrogated.
AI and Image-Based Risks: A First Look
AI is also changing how images and videos are created and shared online. Tools like deepfake technology can manipulate photos of children to produce explicit material. These risks aren’t always obvious but can have serious consequences for mental health, self-esteem, and long-term well-being.
In Part 2, we’ll dive deeper into how image-based exploitation occurs, including deepfakes and sextortion, and what parents can do to respond effectively.
Takeaway for Parents
AI is reshaping the digital world. While it offers amazing opportunities, it also introduces new risks. Parents can start protecting their children today by:
- Staying informed about the platforms and AI tools children use.
- Watching for warning signs of unhealthy online interactions.
- Maintaining open communication to build trust and encourage safe sharing.
Understanding AI’s potential risks is the first step toward creating a safe, supportive online environment for children.
Defend Dignity’s Digital Handbook: https://defenddignity.ca/learn/#protecting-youth-online
Visit our website: https://defenddignity.ca/
Check out our webinar series: https://defenddignity.ca/digital-dignity-webinar-series/
[1] Tiffany Kwok and Christelle Tessono, “(Gen)eration AI: Safeguarding Youth Privacy in the Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence,” The Dais, March 2025.
Holly Wood
Advocacy & Research Coordinator