INTRODUCTION
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science. In simple terms, it is a technology that helps machines imitate human intelligence.
AI technology is modeled after human brain processes, such as how humans process images, language, facts, solve problems, make decisions, etc. AI processes these and supplies output faster than the human brain.
Alan Turing published the first article about Computing Machines and Intelligence as far back as 1950.
AI, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning are not the same thing. Machine Learning is a sub-discipline of AI, and Deep Learning is a sub-discipline of Machine Learning. An example of Deep Learning AI is generative AI.
These two sub-disciplines use ALGORITHMS (i.e., sets of instructions to aid task achievement) that model various human brain processes.
There are two types of AI:
1. Weak AI/narrow AI (Artificial Narrow Intelligence ANI): where machines are trained to perform specific tasks. Examples: Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, etc.
2. Strong AI: This includes Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI). AGI refers to machines having intelligence equal to humans, while ASI refers to machines having intelligence that supersedes humans.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OR BENEFITS OF AI FOR KIDS?
· Learning in kids is enriched by processing large amounts of data over a very short period of time, which is received from AI-powered platforms. Educators can tailor learning to the abilities of kids at different developmental stages.
· AI can teach new languages and skills to children.
· Enable accessibility: In children that are Neurodiverse (e.g., kids diagnosed with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, etc.), AI applications like speech-to-text and other communication aids like TalkingTablets for nonverbal autistic children help tremendously in their learning.
· Creativity: AI can be used to teach children to be creative, making drawings, images, pictures, and other art forms.
· Physical assistance: AI-powered machines can power robotic limbs to assist people with physical challenges.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OR RISKS OF AI FOR KIDS?
· AI can erode privacy for kids. It can result in identity theft or forged identity. Younger children may chat or communicate with smart devices and unknowingly disclose confidential information.
· Concerns for safety and security: Some AI programs may share harmful content with children. These programs may detect a child’s location, save this information, and share it with other third parties. Also, unscrupulous people may hack these programs.
· AI programs can foster bias and stereotypes, which the AI programs learn from online information.
· Some AI programs on apps used by children can flood them with ads, which may be harmful and misleading.
· Bullying can occur with generative AI. Generative AI can be used to create fake and distorted images of your child, E.g., Deepfakes, voice cloning, fake nudes, etc.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PROTECT YOUR KIDS?
· Talk to your kids about AI. Explain it in an age-appropriate manner. Explain what AI is and what its advantages and disadvantages are.
· Teach your preteens and teens how to manage online privacy. For example, teach them how to clear browsing histories, protect their passwords, block social media users or marketers with whom they do not want to interact or communicate, advise them not to transmit or send pictures to strangers online, etc.
· Model responsible use of AI. You can have your kids watch you use AI and teach them during this process about how to identify bias and unhelpful information that AI can give.
· Teach children to avoid plagiarism and always credit the sources of information used in school homework, assignments, and projects. Also, they should be taught that plagiarism can result in legal action. Ensure your child reviews the school’s guidelines on using AI on homework and assignments.
· Some apps or programs can help parents and caregivers review games, apps, TV programs, etc., that your child may use to help you know what may be appropriate based on your child’s age. These apps or programs should not replace your oversight as a parent for these programs or platforms your child interacts with.
· In the US, a bill like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) was introduced in 2022. KOSA applies to covered platforms, such as social media networks, and is aimed at protecting minors from online harm. KOSA is not yet a law. Congress can still do a lot from the legislative point of view to protect kids online.
AI programs and applications are expanding daily, and current information is coming up by the day. As a parent, keep yourself and your family updated on this information to protect your children and family online.
KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE ONLINE.
OUR KIDS DOC 
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