Why Your Child’s Best Listener Shouldn’t Be an AI Chatbot. The New Timebomb Waiting To Explode!
Why Children Shouldn’t Trust AI for Emotional Support: It’s Crucial that they Build Real Relationships Instead Teens are forming intense relationships with ai entities, and parents have no idea. Teenagers are addicted to generative AI models — but their parents have no idea what their kids actually use them for. As part of a new study set to be presented at the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy, a team of researchers interviewed seven teenagers and thirteen parents about their AI usage and perceptions of the tech, and also analysed thousands of Reddit posts and comments from other teens. Their findings illustrate a stark disconnect between the two demographics. Overall, the parents seemed to be under the impression that their kids used AI chatbots mainly as a search engine or as a homework tool. In reality, the teenagers primarily said they used chatbots for therapeutic purposes or for emotional support. Our children are forming emotional connections with bots, machines, and AI. They trust them and look to them for guidance. However, the reality is that children’s brains are still developing in critical ways. During childhood and adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes, especially in areas like emotional regulation, decision-making, and social understanding. These years are a time for building essential life skills—learning how to navigate relationships, process complex emotions, and establish trust with others. When children rely on AI or machines during this crucial developmental period, they may miss out on the richness and depth that real human interactions provide. Emotional growth requires empathy, shared experiences, and mutual understanding—qualities that no algorithm can replicate. The last thing they need is a machine stepping in where genuine, meaningful relationships should be, potentially stunting their ability to connect authentically with others in the future. In a world where artificial intelligence seems to touch every corner of our lives, it’s tempting to lean on technology for solutions—even when it comes to emotional and mental health. AI chatbots promise quick answers to complex problems, and apps claim to offer a “listening ear” for children. But as convenient as this sounds, the last thing a child needs is a machine stepping in where real relationships belong. As parents, we’re responsible for helping our children navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. A crucial part of that is teaching them that while AI can be helpful in certain contexts, it can’t replace human connection. Here’s how you can start that conversation and reinforce the importance of real relationships. 1. Explain the Limitations of AI Begin by discussing what AI is and what it can’t do. AI chatbots might seem friendly and empathetic, but they don’t truly understand emotions. They rely on patterns, pre-programmed responses, and algorithms—not human intuition, empathy, or shared experiences. You could say:“AI can provide facts or suggestions, but it doesn’t have feelings, and it doesn’t know you personally. It can’t really understand how you’re feeling the way a friend, parent, or teacher can.” 2. Highlight the Value of Human Connection Children need to understand that real relationships are about trust, shared experiences, and genuine care—qualities no machine can offer. Talk about how meaningful conversations with trusted adults or friends can provide comfort and solutions in a way AI never could. For example:“When you’re upset or confused, talking to someone who loves you and knows you is always better than a machine. People who care about you can ask questions, offer a hug, or just listen in a way that feels real and safe.” 3. Discuss the Risks of AI for Emotional Support Help your child understand why relying on AI for emotional support can be risky. These tools aren’t perfect—they can give incorrect advice, misunderstand the situation, or even store sensitive information in ways that compromise privacy. You might say:“When you share your feelings with an AI, it doesn’t stay private the way it would if you told a trusted person. It’s important to think about who or what we’re sharing personal things with.” 4. Encourage Open Communication at Home Create a safe space at home where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you or another trusted adult. Reassure them that no problem is too small or too big to discuss. Let them know:“I’m always here to listen, no matter what. If you ever feel like you need advice or just someone to talk to, I want to be that person for you.” 5. Foster Friendships and Support Networks Encourage your child to build strong, real-world relationships with peers, teachers, coaches, or mentors. These connections provide the emotional support and validation AI can never replicate. You could suggest:“If something’s bothering you and you don’t feel like talking to me, it’s okay to reach out to a friend or an adult you trust. Real people can help in ways that technology just can’t.” 6. Model Healthy Technology Use Children learn by example. Show them that even adults set boundaries around technology and prioritise personal relationships. For instance, avoid turning to your phone for distraction during family time and actively engage in face-to-face conversations. Final Thoughts AI is a powerful tool, but it’s just that—a tool. It can’t replace the comfort of a parent’s arms, the advice of a caring teacher, or the shared laughter of a friend. By teaching your children to value and nurture human connections, you’re helping them build the emotional resilience they’ll need throughout life. In a world increasingly driven by machines, let’s remind our children of what truly matters: authentic relationships, trust, and the irreplaceable power of being seen and heard by another human being. This is where my professional Power Hours of 1-2-1 coaching come in: What Are Power Hours? My Power Hours are personalised, one-on-one sessions designed to provide practical, actionable guidance for families and organisations looking to thrive in the digital age. Whether you’re grappling with screen time limits, online safety, or fostering healthy digital habits, my expert insights will equip you with the tools you need to navigate these challenges confidently. Why Choose Power
Why Kids Need Parents, Not Pals, in the Digital Jungle
Kids Need Boundaries To Help Them Thrive in a Digital Jungle Screenagers: The Digital Dilemma. In today’s hyper-connected, fast-paced world, setting boundaries for kids is more essential than ever. The digital age offers countless learning opportunities and engaging entertainment, but it also brings challenges, especially when it comes to screen time and digital safety. By establishing boundaries, parents provide children with the tools to navigate this “digital jungle” and learn how to manage their online lives with self-discipline. Yet, an emerging trend among parents—trying to be their child’s friend rather than their authority figure—can inadvertently hinder this process, making life harder for the whole family. Boundaries not only create a sense of security but also instill essential skills for adulthood, like self-control, responsibility, and decision-making. Here’s why boundaries are necessary, particularly in managing technology, and how they support children’s long-term well-being. 1. Boundaries Teach Self-Discipline and Help Kids Develop a Sense of Responsibility When children understand limits—whether it’s on screen time, smartphone use, or bedtime—they begin to develop self-discipline, which will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Boundaries provide structure, showing children where to draw the line and how to balance various parts of their lives. For example, when parents set screen time limits, kids learn that they can enjoy online activities but also need time for physical play, social interactions, and family activities. This balance is essential in navigating the digital jungle. Without boundaries, many children would naturally spend hours on screens, from gaming to social media. Setting limits helps them practice moderation, gradually learning to regulate their own time and recognise when they’ve had enough. 2. Boundaries Create Security and Predictability Children thrive when they feel safe and know what to expect. A predictable structure allows kids to navigate the world with confidence. For example, having a “no phones at the dinner table” rule sends a clear message: family time is valued, and there’s a designated moment for in-person connection without digital distractions. Such boundaries extend to managing smartphone use, which can feel especially pressing for parents of teenagers. Setting a policy about smartphone ownership—like delaying the purchase until they reach a certain age or limiting their access to certain apps—can help children understand the benefits of delayed gratification. It also underscores the importance of balance, teaching kids that they don’t always need to be plugged in to feel fulfilled. 3. Boundaries Build Resilience by Teaching Children to Say “No” to Themselves Boundaries help children develop the resilience to resist impulsive behaviours, even when no one is watching. For instance, a child who is accustomed to having a screen time limit will learn that there are times to focus on other activities—even when it’s hard to pull themselves away from the screen. This resilience becomes crucial as children grow and face more complex challenges in the digital world. Whether it’s saying “no” to excessive social media scrolling, avoiding unsafe online interactions, or steering clear of risky content, learning to set personal limits early on prepares kids for responsible independence. The Dangers of “Friend First” Parenting: Why Kids Need a Parent, Not a Peer It’s natural to want to build a close, open relationship with your child. But there’s a difference between being approachable and sacrificing authority. When parents prioritise being their child’s friend over providing guidance, children lose out on essential learning moments that only come from a parent-child relationship. Without clear authority, children may feel less accountable to house rules, expecting more leniency than is beneficial. For instance, when it comes to saying “no” to smartphones or setting digital boundaries, children need a parent who can confidently make and enforce rules, even if it causes initial disappointment. Friend-first parenting can blur these lines, making it harder for parents to set necessary limits without feeling guilty or second-guessing themselves. Boundaries require consistency and clarity, traits that aren’t always compatible with a peer-like relationship. A parent who provides structure—while remaining compassionate and understanding—gives their child the best chance to develop emotional maturity and responsibility. Kids naturally & always push back on boundaries, testing limits as part of their growth and development. But it’s important for parents to establish firm, fair & consistent boundaries, as this guidance helps children feel secure and teaches them self-discipline and respect for limits. Meanwhile, as kids continue to do their part, parents are finding it increasingly difficult to fulfill theirs—leading to an off-balance family dynamic which is impacting everyone’s mental health. Helping Kids “Navigate the Digital Jungle” by Saying “No” to Too Much Screen Time Our “digital jungle” is filled with distractions, temptations, and even dangers. As children grow, they will inevitably encounter challenges online, from cyberbullying and harmful content to excessive use of apps designed to be addictive. Teaching kids to navigate this digital landscape requires more than simply teaching them to avoid dangers—it’s about setting a foundation for healthy digital habits that will last a lifetime. Saying “no” to unrestricted smartphone use, for instance, might be one of the most valuable lessons parents can offer. Holding off on smartphone ownership until an appropriate age, or setting limits on apps and time spent online, helps children view technology as a tool rather than a source of constant entertainment. When parents set limits on screens early, they teach children to prioritize other activities, discover offline hobbies, and build strong, real-world connections. This proactive approach encourages kids to build meaningful lives outside of their devices, creating a healthier relationship with technology as they grow. Setting Boundaries: How to Begin If you’re struggling to establish boundaries with your child, start with these basic steps: Start Small and Be Consistent: Begin by setting simple, manageable rules—like a bedtime routine or a device-free dinner. Consistency is key, as children feel more secure when they understand what’s expected of them. Model Good Behaviour: Show your child that boundaries apply to everyone. Practice putting away your own smartphone at dinner or during family time, demonstrating that boundaries aren’t just for kids. Explain the “Why”: Whenever possible, help children understand why
