How Children Perceive AI: Opinions of Schoolchildren and Teenagers
Photo: MIT Technology Review
Quick answer
Children and teens primarily use AI for learning, information searches, and entertainment, but only 12% turn to chatbots for emotional support.
Artificial intelligence is gradually becoming part of the daily lives of schoolchildren and teenagers, though many don’t always notice its presence. A study by MIT Technology Review reveals that children often encounter AI through parents, school, or built-in features in familiar apps like Google or educational platforms. To them, the technology feels natural and requires no special attention.
According to 2026 Pew Research Center data, 57% of American teens used chatbots to search for information, 54% for study help, and 47% for entertainment. Only 12% turned to AI for emotional support. Meanwhile, teens are four times more likely to use AI for harmless purposes than potentially risky ones. Some even create their own projects with AI—from game characters to educational platforms and virtual tutors.
Despite widespread adoption, children recognize AI-related risks. They may face unfiltered content, over-rely on chatbots instead of critical thinking, or receive incorrect answers. Experts emphasize that these dangers aren’t a reason to avoid AI but to teach proper interaction with it. Like driving a car, the goal isn’t prohibition but education on avoiding mistakes.
Interestingly, teens who actively use AI can teach adults valuable lessons. They clearly separate tasks they trust AI with from those they prefer to control themselves. Their concerns focus more on societal harm than personal risks like job displacement. As AI takes on thinking, communication, or even relationship-building, most kids want to stay in the driver’s seat.
Common questions
- How do teenagers use artificial intelligence?
- Most teens use AI for information searches, study assistance, and entertainment. About half employ chatbots to create projects, such as characters or educational platforms.
- What risks do children see in AI usage?
- Teens worry about unfiltered content, chatbot inaccuracies, and over-reliance on technology. However, they believe learning proper AI interaction is more important than avoiding it entirely.
- What can children teach adults about AI?
- Kids and teens clearly distinguish tasks they trust AI with versus those they prefer to handle themselves. They prioritize societal impacts over personal risks like job loss.
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