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AI Toys: It is not easy for young children to understand that their teddy bear is not actually alive.

(Are AI Toys Dangerous for Children)

AI Toys: Stories of talking teddy bears have always fascinated children in fantasy worlds, but now they're becoming a reality. New AI-powered teddy bears like ChattyBear can interact with children, discuss their likes and dislikes, tell stories, play games, and even discuss current events in the world.

These smart toys operate using generative AI technology, such as ChatGPT. Companies are marketing them as a new learning medium for young children and a way to avoid screen time. However, after testing six different AI toys over several months, experts have warned that they carry some serious risks.

When a toy starts behaving like a human

It's difficult for young children to understand that their teddy bear isn't actually alive. The problem is compounded when AI toys start posing as a child's true friend or buddy.

A human-like voice and conversation style can create a sense of trust and emotional connection for children. Many AI toys agree with children, praise them, and provide consistent positive feedback. This can make them more appealing.

Research shows that young children quickly form emotional bonds with conversational AI systems. This is why experts believe it's important to teach children that AI is a technological tool, not a real friend.

The hidden danger of endless conversation

Most AI toys are promoted by the idea that they can interact with children at any time and for any length of time. While this feature may seem appealing at first glance, it also has some downsides.

The constant interaction can make it difficult for children to set limits on their technology use. Just like endless scrolling on social media can be problematic, AI toys can also lead to prolonged engagement.

Some studies have also found that some AI systems can sometimes discuss age-inappropriate topics that could be harmful to children.

Children's personal information may also be at risk.

Children often believe that the conversations they have with their teddy bears are completely private. However, the reality may be different. Data from conversations with AI toys is often stored on companies' servers. Children may share personal information about themselves, family, or other private details that could later be used to improve the technology.

This means that a friendly-looking teddy bear can also collect sensitive information about children.

impact on social and emotional development

Childhood is the time when children learn to form relationships with others, trust, and understand emotions. These skills typically develop through interactions with family, friends, and others.

Experts believe that if children spend too much time with AI companions, they may lose their interaction with real people, reducing their opportunities to develop social skills.

In the long run, this situation may lead children to find interactions with machines more comfortable and relationships with humans more complex, which may also increase feelings of loneliness.

Why is the role of parents important with AI toys?

Today, AI technology has become so accessible through voice that even young children who cannot read or write can use it. This certainly opens up new opportunities for learning and entertainment, but it also increases security responsibilities.

Experts say that using AI toys with children, if done together by a parent or trusted adult, can be an engaging way to learn about technology. However, leaving young children unsupervised with such toys can pose a number of new risks.

What next?

The market for AI toys is growing rapidly, and major toy companies are investing in this area. However, there is currently insufficient research on their long-term effects. Therefore, it is crucial that manufacturers prioritize safety and that parents monitor children's use of AI toys to ensure that children reap the benefits of the technology while avoiding potential risks.