What are AI chatbots?

AI chatbots are computer programmes designed to have conversations and answer questions in a human-like way. 

Your child may already be using them without realising. They appear in many places, including:

• Within common AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini
• Social media features like Snapchat’s “My AI”
• Many other companion-style apps designed to act like 'friends'

Used appropriately, these tools can support learning, creativity and answer important questions. However, they also bring new safeguarding considerations that I think you should be aware of.

What are the risks?

• Emotional dependency: Chatbots are available 24/7 and can feel like a constant companion. Children may begin to rely on them for support, reducing time spent with family and friends or seeking help from trusted adults. 
• Reinforcing harmful ideas: Because chatbots aim to agree and be helpful, they may unintentionally reinforce harmful thinking or behaviours instead of challenging them. 
• Promoting stereotypes or bias: Chatbots learn from large amounts of online information. This means they can sometimes repeat stereotypes or biased views. 
• Exposure to inappropriate content: Some chatbots can generate inappropriate or explicit content, or engage in conversations that are not suitable for children. 
• Impact on development: Research into long-term impact is still developing, but there are concerns about effects on children’s thinking, social skills and emotional development. 
• Privacy and data concerns: Children may share personal information without understanding how it is stored or used. Not all apps are clear about their data use. 

What can parents and carers do?

At Brighton Hill, we talk to students about safe use of technology and have lots of mechanisms in place to m,ontoir their use of the internet/AI. However, these conversations are most effective when supported at home.

Here are some 'top tips':

1. Talk about it!:

• Ask your child what they use and how they use it
• Explore apps together so you understand how they work
• Reinforce that chatbots are not real people

2. Set clear boundaries & expectations:

• Agree when and where chatbots can be used, if at all, and encourage your child to use their devices in shared spaces where you can monitor

3. Encourage critical thinking:

• Remind children that chatbot responses are not always accurate
• Encourage them to check information with trusted sources

4. Check age suitability

• Review app age ratings (most of the them are 13+)
• Block access to apps that may not be appropriate

Signs to look out for:

You know your child best, and so are best placed to spot any signs that they might be struggling. The following changes may indicate they need some support:

• Spending increasing amounts of time online
• Becoming withdrawn from family or friends
• Changes in mood after using devices
• Being tired from late-night online activity
• Becoming secretive about online use 

 

As ever, if you have any concerns, please contact us directly via the following email address: safeguarding@bhcs.sfet.org.uk 

There is also an attached document/factsheet with more information, and some signposting to useful resources.