AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement
A Parent’s Guide to Character AI & Digital Companions
Some students are using new apps to talk to “AI friends.” These are computer programs that act like real people. They are available 24/7 on phones, tablets, and computers. While it looks like a game, these “friends” can cause problems for kids.
The Facts
Seven out of ten teens have tried talking to an AI friend.
Over half of these students use them every day.
Some students spend 90 minutes a day chatting with them.
Many kids say talking to a computer feels “easier” than talking to real people.
Why Is This a Risk?
It’s Not Real: A computer doesn’t have feelings. It just says what it thinks the child wants to hear.
Hard to Quit: These apps are made to keep kids talking for hours. This can lead to less sleep and missed homework.
Safety: Even with filters, these bots can sometimes talk about “adult” topics or themes that are not safe for kids.
Privacy: Everything your child types is saved by the company that owns the app.
Signs to Look For
Your child treats the phone like a real person.
They hide their screen when you walk by.
They stay up late at night to text the AI.
They stop hanging out with real-life friends.
What You Can Do
Talk about it: Ask, “Have you seen those AI chat apps? What do you think of them?”
Set a rule: Remind them that “AI is a tool, not a friend.” It cannot love or support them like a human can.
Bedtime for phones: Have kids charge their phones in the kitchen at night. This stops late-night chatting.
Go outside: Encourage real-world fun like sports, clubs, or playing with friends in person.
“AI can be a tool for learning, but it should never be a substitute for the human heart.”
AI IS A TOOL, NOT A REPLACEMENT
