Tips to use GenAI wisely at home

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As technology evolves, so does the way our children interact with it. Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI) are now part of many digital experiences, offering exciting learning opportunities but also introducing new risks. Open and honest conversations can help your child understand how to use these tools safely and responsibly.

Understanding AI and GenAI

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, like learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Generative AI (GenAI) is a type of AI that creates new content such as text, images, audio, or video that resembles human-made creations. Popular examples include:

  • Chatbots like ChatGPT, Siri, Alexa, or Google Gemini
  • Image and video generators like DALL-E, Midjourney, or Bing Image Creator
  • Voice generators like VALL-E or voice.ai
  • Music composition tools like Music AI or Suno AI

These technologies are powerful but need to be used safely and responsibly.

Key risks to be mindful of and discuss

While Gen AI can be a powerful tool, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Two major areas of concern are deepfakes and AI companions.

Deepfakes

Deepfakes are highly realistic but fake digital images, videos, or audio clips of real people. GenAI can manipulate faces and voices to create convincing, yet completely fabricated, content. This technology can been used maliciously for:

  • identity theft and reputational damage
  • bullying and harassment
  • spreading disinformation

These can be incredibly difficult to detect, making it important for children to understand that not everything you see or hear online is real. For more information, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s page on deepfakes.

AI chatbots and companions

AI companions are chatbots designed to engage in conversations that feel personal and interactive. While they can be entertaining and educational, there are some risks to be aware of:

  • Lack of age restrictions: many AI companions do not have proper safety measures in place
  • Addictive use: children may spend excessive amounts of time engaging with these chatbots, sometimes at the expense of real-world relationships
  • Inappropriate conversations: chatbots may discuss topics that relate to personal safety or are not age appropriate. This may include self-harm or sex.

For more information, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s page on AI chatbots and companions – risks to children and young people.

The eSafety Guide provides a list of these applications and assesses their security. The NSW Department of Education recommends that parents or carers review this advice before allowing your child to use any of the listed AI tools: Talkie, Character.AI, Replika, Linky and Google Gemini.

Tips for using GenAI wisely

You can play a big role in helping your child use GenAI responsibly. Here are some practical tips.

  • Stay informed. Learn about Gen AI and its uses. The more you understand, the easier it is to guide your child safely. Get advice from your child’s school or the eSafety Commissioner and talk to your school Principal about any specific concerns or questions relating to your child.
  • Have open communication. Encourage discussions with your child about their experiences with Gen AI. Ask them what tools they are using and how they are applying them for schoolwork or in their friends’ circle. Use technology together.
  • Monitor usage. Keep an eye on your child's interactions with Gen AI tools, particularly regarding the content they create and the information they consume.
  • Set boundaries. Establish rules around technology use, including time limits and types of acceptable content, to foster a healthy balance between digital engagement and offline activities. Use parental controls based on your child’s age and experience.
  • Promote critical thinking. Teach your child to question the reliability of AI-generated information and verify facts through trusted sources.

Learn more about safe AI use

The department has released detailed information to support further understanding of AI use, particularly how we are ensuring safe and ethical use in NSW public schools. This information includes:

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