Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming part of childhood. Unlike previous technological revolutions, AI is not limited to specialists or professionals. It is available to almost anyone with a smartphone, often at little or no cost. Children can use AI to ask questions, generate content, solve problems, write code, create images, and seek advice at any time of day.
The benefits of AI are widely recognized and extensively discussed. This article deliberately focuses on another side of the conversation: the risks that AI presents to children and teenagers, and the collective responsibility required to reduce those risks.
The purpose is not to create fear of AI. Nor is it to discourage innovation. Instead, it is to encourage thoughtful action before isolated incidents become widespread societal problems.
Every new technology has introduced new risks. Automobiles led to seatbelts and traffic laws. Medicines require child-resistant packaging. The internet led to parental controls, online safety education, and cybersecurity measures.
Artificial Intelligence deserves the same level of attention.