[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-80px|||||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
AI: the stuff of dreams or nightmares? Going by the movies, it has the potential to dominate, and judging by the world\u2019s response so far to ChatGPT, there might be some truth to it. As AI tools like ChatGPT become part of daily life, many young people are increasingly turning to them for schoolwork, advice, and even emotional support.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n But is ChatGPT a revolution, or simply a danger for children and teens?<\/strong> Let\u2019s take a closer look at ChatGPT, how it works, and whether you can make it safer for your child to use.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ChatGPT is a chatbot, created and developed by OpenAI<\/b>, a research lab dedicated to artificial intelligence. The AI system is designed and trained to simulate more conversational, human responses to prompts and questions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n ChatGPT is a trained artificial intelligence bot, instructed on a huge database of websites, books, articles, and many other texts, which help it to understand the patterns of natural, more human-sounding language. Put simply, it behaves like <\/span>a language machine, pre-trained to mimic writing<\/b>, and when prompted, it will use its knowledge to generate a response similar to one a real person might give. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Particularly in its earlier days, kids turned to ChatGPT for homework help, using it like an assignment assistant. In 2024, <\/span>almost a quarter of US teens stated they used ChatGPT for schoolwork<\/span><\/a> – more than double the share of the previous year. ChatGPT often acts as a resource for kids, where they can:<\/span><\/p>\n As time goes by, and kids have had more opportunities to use ChatGPT, <\/span>new uses of ChatGPT are constantly emerging<\/b>. It\u2019s turned into a <\/span>therapist<\/span><\/a>, counselor, confidant, and companion. OpenAI\u2019s CEO, Sam Altman, understands that there\u2019s been a shift towards using ChatGPT this way: \u201cThere\u2019s young people who just say, like, \u2018I can\u2019t make any decision in my life without telling ChatGPT everything that\u2019s going on. It knows me. It knows my friends. I\u2019m gonna do whatever it says\u2019.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/static.qustodio.com\/public-site\/uploads\/2023\/03\/07104528\/Blog_Is-ChatGPT-safe-for-kids_InsideImage.png” alt=”is chatgpt safe for kids to use” title_text=”Blog_Is-ChatGPT-safe-for-kids_InsideImage” align=”center” disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_toggle title=”Inappropriate content” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In late 2025, close to the release of its parental control features, OpenAI announced that adult users would soon have access to \u201cerotica\u201d content generation tools. These features are intended for adults only, but older teens or <\/span>curious kids could easily be <\/b>exposed to explicit content<\/b><\/a> by lying about their age<\/b> or using someone else\u2019s account. Kids could also use unverified third-party apps or share the erotica output online, such as in chats with friends.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Aside from the \u201cerotica\u201d feature, some chats and interactions could expose children to content and ideas not appropriate for their age. ChatGPT does have filters, but they aren\u2019t foolproof, and users can find ways to get around them.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Potential to cause harm” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ChatGPT can easily be used by bad actors looking to harass or <\/span>scam young people<\/span><\/a>. Scammers and hackers might use AI-generated messages to make phishing attempts sound more convincing, or to impersonate trusted people or organizations.<\/span>\u00a0<\/p>\n Others might use ChatGPT to deliberately spread false information, harass others, or create fake profiles that look real. <\/span>Children could also use ChatGPT irresponsibly themselves<\/b>, to spread rumors, cheat on homework and schoolwork, or bully others online.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Attachment to AI” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Many teens use ChatGPT simply to chat for fun, or because they\u2019re feeling lonely or anxious. While the case could be argued that ChatGPT is a free space where people can get direct feedback and support, <\/span>ChatGPT is not a licensed therapist or a mental health professional<\/b>. Kids and adults alike are increasingly turning to it for support, instead of in the \u201creal\u201d world, developing an attachment or prioritizing ChatGPT advice over a person-to-person connection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In 2025, <\/span>a 16-year-old boy took his own life<\/span><\/a> after engaging in emotional discussions with ChatGPT – what started out as homework help turned into more personal discussions that signalled a cry for help. ChatGPT failed to shut down the conversation, instead encouraging the teenager to continue, engaging with him in discussions about suicidal ideation and listing methods that would be most effective.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Data privacy” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ChatGPT uses data encryption to protect any details entered during user interactions, and the model itself is hosted on secure, restricted-access servers. However, bear in mind that whenever you use any free product on the internet, you are also part of the product. This means that <\/span>any data or information you enter into ChatGPT (or other free services online) is no longer in your control<\/b>. The company behind it has the rights and access to it. In addition, companies are prone to data leaks and hacks – the Chinese AI platform <\/span>Deepseek suffered a cyber attack in 2025<\/span><\/a> that left user data and chat histories exposed.<\/span><\/p>\n If kids share personal information, like their name, school, or location, this could become part of OpenAI\u2019s stored data. Children might not understand that their chats aren\u2019t really private, putting their personal information at risk.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_toggle title=”Misinformation or misleading information” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Responses provided by ChatGPT could be wrong or misleading, such as information surrounding health-related topics. Information provided by the bot should be double-checked, talked over with an adult, or verified using a reliable source.<\/span><\/p>\n ChatGPT was trained on a wide range of text, from books to online articles, from different sources. This means<\/span> it could easily create text that sounds accurate and believable, despite being neither<\/b>. Even <\/span>OpenAI researchers have stated<\/span><\/a> that ChatGPT or similar tools could aid in the spread of \u201ca particular political agenda, and\/or a desire to create chaos or confusion.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Consent” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Several viral trends in 2025 encouraged users to upload a picture of themselves to ChatGPT, such as the Ghibli trend, which transformed images into cartoon versions in the style of Studio Ghibli films. While this might seem fun and cute, it raises concerns about privacy and consent. Teens (and adults) need to understand that <\/span>uploading someone\u2019s image without their consent is never acceptable<\/b>, and that any image shared online could be used to train AI systems, or spread without control.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Sycophancy” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ChatGPT tends to agree with or flatter users instead of challenging their ideas. This can make kids feel validated, even when they\u2019re wrong, or making poor decisions. Over time, this <\/span>sycophancy and agreeableness could distort their sense of judgment<\/b>, making them less open to constructive feedback from others, while also fuelling dependency. Who wouldn\u2019t want to talk more to something that says you\u2019re always right?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”Third-party apps” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n ChatGPT\u2019s popularity means it is now built into many platforms, from learning tools to games and social media. Kids could be using the tool without realizing it, making it harder for parents to know when and how their child is engaging with AI. Some third-party apps claiming to use ChatGPT may lack OpenAI\u2019s safety measures, increasing the risk of exposure to unsafe content or scams.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Many tech experts and specialists argue that ChatGPT could be seen as a new learning opportunity<\/b>, providing students with an interactive and engaging way to practice skills they are learning, and tailoring learning to match individual style for improved understanding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n However, just as with any AI technology, kids and adults alike will benefit most when managing expectations of tools like ChatGPT, and exercising caution when using it. AI technology represents the future, and <\/span>young people need to understand its pros and cons<\/b> to really make the most of what it has to offer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n 1. Explore parental controls on ChatGPT<\/b><\/p>\n ChatGPT offers family settings and parental controls. By pairing an adult account with a child account, parents can manage chat history, restrict access to certain features, and monitor ChatGPT use on shared devices.<\/span><\/p>\n 2. Make sure use is age-appropriate<\/b><\/p>\n ChatGPT\u2019s terms of use state that children under 13 years old shouldn\u2019t be using the tool. If your child is under this age, you can <\/span>use parental controls like Qustodio to block the ChatGPT app<\/b>. Qustodio also allows you to block AI apps and AI websites as an entire category, making your child\u2019s experience more age-appropriate, and keeping them safe from more problematic AI services, such as <\/span>AI companion bots<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While children under 13 can\u2019t have their own account, children are already using AI in multiple ways, and curious kids will always find a way to explore more – therefore it\u2019s important to <\/span>talk to your child from a young age about the pros and cons of AI<\/b>, the ways it can be used, and what it shouldn\u2019t be used for. <\/span>Exploring AI tools together<\/span><\/a> means you can introduce it on your own terms, with guidance, rather than them trying a new tool out for the first time alone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 3. Encourage shared use<\/b><\/p>\n Use ChatGPT together or through a family shared account<\/b>. This helps you to guide your child\u2019s experience, and talk together about what they\u2019re asking, learning, and exploring, while raising concerns if you see any red flags.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 4. Teach kids how to think critically<\/b><\/p>\n It\u2019s important that children know<\/span> how to double-check the information<\/span><\/a> ChatGPT provides, and whether the response it gives is biased or inaccurate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nWhat is ChatGPT?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What do kids use ChatGPT for? <\/strong><\/h2>\n
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ChatGPT: the risks parents need to know<\/strong><\/h2>\n
6 ways to make ChatGPT safer for kids and teens<\/strong><\/h2>\n