AI technology continues to develop at remarkable speed, and the risks it presents to children develop with it. Since we first published our quick guide in early 2025, much has changed - so we have given it a full update to make sure parents and carers have current, practical information in a format that can be read in a few minutes.

The updated guide reflects our comprehensive guide, which was itself revised this month, and covers:

• AI companions and chatbots, including the warning signs of unhealthy attachment, why some children at risk may show no warning signs at all, and our position that AI companions are not suitable for anyone under 18
  
• AI toys, such as "AI teddy bears", which increasingly embed chatbots and carry many of the same risks for much younger children
  
• Deepfakes, nudifying apps and exploitation, with practical steps for reducing risk and responding if a child is targeted
  
• Voice cloning and scams, including how a simple family password can help protect against calls that sound convincingly like a loved one
  
• Privacy and data concerns, from everyday apps to newer always-on wearable devices
  
• Homework, AI answers and misinformation, and how to help children question what AI tells them
  
• Algorithms and addictive design, including social media
  
• Body image and mental health, and the longer-term risks children will inherit as AI becomes more powerful

As before, each section includes clear, practical steps that parents and carers can take - because helping to protect children from AI risks does not require technical expertise, just awareness, open conversation and sensible boundaries.

For those who would like more comprehensive information, our full guide remains available and explores each of these risks in greater depth, along with guidance for schools and educators, emerging and future risks, and recommendations for policymakers: AI Risks to Children - A Comprehensive Guide for Parents & Educators

If you find these guides helpful, please consider sharing them with your school or parent community - and if you would like to support our work in protecting children from AI harms, you can find out more about our Non-Negotiables campaign or support us here.