In today’s hyper-connected world, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept — it’s woven into the fabric of our daily lives. From personalized learning apps to deepfake technology, AI is shaping how children interact with the digital world. While these advancements promise innovation in education, they also introduce significant challenges. How can we harness AI’s potential while protecting children from its risks?

AI’s Expanding Role in Education

AI-powered tools are transforming education at an unprecedented pace. Personalized learning platforms use machine learning to tailor lessons to individual students, helping them grasp complex topics at their own speed. Virtual tutors provide instant feedback, making education more accessible than ever before. These technologies have the potential to bridge learning gaps and create more equitable opportunities.

But AI isn’t a flawless solution. The rise of deepfake technology — AI-generated content that manipulates images, videos, or voices — has made misinformation a growing concern. What happens when children struggle to distinguish between reality and digital fabrications? As AI becomes more sophisticated, so must our ability to critically navigate the information it generates.

The Double-Edged Sword of AI in Child Development

Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s a double-edged sword when it comes to childhood development. Studies show that excessive screen time can hinder social skills, attention spans, and emotional regulation. AI-driven content, designed for engagement, can lead to digital addiction, pulling children further away from real-world interactions.

At the same time, responsible AI integration can enhance education and creativity. Virtual reality (VR) experiences bring history lessons to life, while AI-driven storytelling platforms encourage young minds to explore new narratives. The challenge lies in creating a balance — leveraging AI for educational enrichment without letting it dictate childhood experiences.

Safeguarding the Future: Regulation and Parental Involvement

The responsibility of managing AI’s influence on children doesn’t fall on one entity alone. Governments must implement regulations that ensure ethical AI use, particularly in education and media. Schools need to adopt AI with transparency, ensuring that students are not unknowingly subjected to biased algorithms or manipulative content.

Parents play a crucial role, too. Open conversations about AI, media literacy, and digital well-being can empower children to become critical consumers of technology. Setting boundaries — such as screen time limits and AI-free zones at home — can help maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life.

The Need for Thoughtful AI Integration

Artificial intelligence holds immense potential to revolutionize education, but it must be used responsibly. By prioritizing ethical considerations, fostering digital literacy, and advocating for smart regulations, we can create a future where AI enhances childhood experiences rather than diminishing them.

For this purpose, I believe that banning smartphones in classrooms — a step that Hungary has taken last year — allows students to focus on learning, but does not deprive them of guided use of AI. Sadly, there is a growing social media addiction among our youth, to which a banning of smartphones in school could provide a temporary relief. However, all countries desire a strong digital economy with great professionals, which requires us to embrace technology and live with it, but not be ruled by it.

The key isn’t to reject AI but to integrate it thoughtfully — ensuring that technology remains a tool for learning, not a replacement for genuine human connection.

Monika Mercz is a visiting researcher at The George Washington University. She is a Hungarian lawyer, focusing on how AI can be used to better protect children.