AI & Children: New Study Findings
- A recent study by The Alan Turing Institute, with support from the LEGO Group, indicates that children are rapidly adopting generative AI tools, even though these tools are...
- The study found that 22% of children aged 8-12 in the UK have already experimented with platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Snapchat’s My AI.
- Mhairi Aitken, Senior Ethics Fellow at The alan Turing Institute, emphasized the importance of understanding children's unique experiences with AI.
A new study reveals a surge in generative AI use among young children: 22% of UK kids aged 8-12 are already using tools like ChatGPT. The findings highlight the potential of this technology,but also raise crucial questions about its impact on children. News Directory 3 explores the concerning digital divide: private school students are using AI far more than those in state schools. This research also details how children with learning needs are leveraging AI for connection. Discover the emerging environmental concerns and parental worries surrounding AI. What do these insights mean for the future?
Study: Generative AI Use Surging Among Young Children
Updated June 07, 2025
A recent study by The Alan Turing Institute, with support from the LEGO Group, indicates that children are rapidly adopting generative AI tools, even though these tools are not designed for them. The research highlights both opportunities and potential pitfalls as young users engage with this technology.
The study found that 22% of children aged 8-12 in the UK have already experimented with platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Snapchat’s My AI. This widespread adoption raises questions about the suitability and safety of these tools for younger users.
Dr. Mhairi Aitken, Senior Ethics Fellow at The alan Turing Institute, emphasized the importance of understanding children’s unique experiences with AI. “Children’s experiences with this technology are considerably different from those of adults, so it is crucial that we listen to their perspectives to understand their particular needs and interests,” Aitken said.
Access Divide in Generative AI use
The study, which included surveys from over 1,700 children, parents, and teachers, revealed a notable disparity in access to generative AI between private and state schools. A key finding showed that 52% of children in private schools had used generative AI, compared to only 18% in state schools. This gap could widen the digital divide,possibly disadvantaging state school students in a crucial future technology.
The report warns, “This has the capacity to widen the digital divide with impacts for the competence of state school students in a key future technology.”
Vulnerable Children and AI Companionship
The research also indicated that children with additional learning needs are using AI in unique ways. More than half (53%) reported using AI to express thoughts they found arduous to communicate otherwise. Additionally, 39% used it to seek personal advice, compared to just 16% of their neurotypical peers. A significant portion also used AI for companionship,with 37% reporting this use compared to 22% of their peers. These findings suggest that generative AI is becoming an vital emotional and social tool for vulnerable children,highlighting the need for appropriate safeguards.
Depiction Matters
During creative workshops, children of color expressed frustration that AI-generated images often failed to reflect their appearance, language, or interests. This lack of representation led some to become discouraged and discontinue using the tools. The study found that “Children of color frequently enough felt frustrated or upset that generative AI tools did not produce images that represented them.”
Environmental Concerns
Surprisingly, children in the workshops also voiced concerns about the environmental impact of generative AI, notably its energy and water consumption. Some children decided to stop using AI after learning about its environmental demands. The report noted that many children’s responses regarding the future development and use of generative AI related to actions needed to address its environmental impacts.
Parental Concerns Beyond Cheating
Contrary to popular belief,parents and teachers are less concerned about cheating than othre issues related to AI use. While only 41% of parents listed cheating as a top concern, 82% worried about exposure to inappropriate content, and 77% were concerned about misinformation. Teachers echoed these concerns, with many reporting positive experiences using AI themselves but also noting a decline in student engagement and creativity.
Recommendations for Policymakers and Developers
The report urges AI technology platform developers and policymakers to involve children in the development process, ensuring that outputs reflect the diversity of all children. it also calls for enhanced AI literacy efforts in state schools and under-resourced classrooms, including education about the environmental costs of AI use.
What’s next
The study underscores that children are already shaping the future of AI. As the first generation to grow up with these systems, their experiences will significantly influence how AI is trusted, used, and challenged in the years to come. It is crucial to listen to their needs and ensure that AI tools are developed with their best interests in mind.