GUIDE
Conversation starters: what not to share with an AI
Your child will encounter AI tools—chatbots, image generators, recommendation algorithms—across school and social platforms.
What to Discuss About AI Safety at Home
Your child will encounter AI tools—chatbots, image generators, recommendation algorithms—across school and social platforms. Rather than forbidding them, frame conversations around what information is unsafe to share anywhere online, AI or not.
Core patterns to discuss: Never share real names, addresses, schools, phone numbers, or routines with any online tool. Avoid describing appearance in ways that could identify them. Don't share passwords, account details, or family financial information. Explain that AI systems store conversations, and what feels private isn't always protected.
Age guidance: Start basic boundary-setting (ages 7+), deepen conversations about data and privacy (10+), and by mid-teens, discuss how AI learns from what people feed it—including personal details that train systems to be persuasive.
Building Critical Habits, Not Fear
The goal isn't paranoia; it's intentional use. Encourage kids to pause before typing sensitive details, just as they would before posting publicly. Model this yourself. Discuss real scenarios: "If you told an AI your favorite hangout spot, why might that matter?" This builds judgment, not anxiety.
Most AI tools have age-of-use policies (typically 13+). Check your device settings and app permissions; they're often more protective than the services themselves.
This is general parenting guidance, not clinical or legal advice.
