Chatbots and Children: What Every Parent Needs to Know In this episode of 'Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends,' Sue Atkins is joined by online safety expert Andrew Briercliffe and 'Her Tech Life' podcast host Kat Cauchi to discuss the impact of AI chatbots on children's lives. They explore the benefits and risks of virtual assistants and conversational AI, focusing on their influence on kids' learning, social interactions, and privacy. They also provide practical tips for parents on managing and guiding their children's interaction with AI technologies. Additionally, Angeline Corvaglia shares insights into the emotional dangers posed by AI chatbots, making a case for the importance of real human connections. We shine the spotlight on another great podcast this week: Her Tech Life Podcast. More info below The episode concludes with advice for fostering open communication at home and promoting digital literacy. 00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle 00:35 The Role of AI Chatbots in Children's Lives 01:35 Impact of Chatbots on Social Skills and Privacy 03:18 Virtual Assistants vs. Chatbots 04:13 Real-Life Dangers of AI Chatbots 04:55 Chatbots in Education 06:20 Red Flags for Parents 08:29 Practical Tips for Parents and Schools 09:34 The Importance of Critical Thinking 26:02 Family Change Idea of the Week 27:24 Listener Questions and Weekly Tips 30:48 About the New Book: Navigating the Digital Jungle 32:26 Spotlight on Her Tech Life Podcast 40:54 Script of the Week: Chatbot Conversations 43:01 Conclusion and Sponsor Message Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by GigabitIQ. GigabitIQ is revolutionising the internet experience with gigabit-fast speeds and award-winning online safety features. With innovative tools like FamilyGuard Plus and CyberGuard Plus, GigabitIQ helps protect your home and loved ones from digital threats, ensuring a safer online environment for everyone. Ready to upgrade your connection and prioritise your family’s online safety? Visit gigabitiq.com to experience the speed you need with the safety you trust. ‘The PIG’ – The Problem of Immediate Gratification & What to Do About It! https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/navigating-the-digital-jungle-the-pig-the- problem-of-immediate-gratification-what-to-do-about-it/ For parents looking for more in-depth guidance, check out our Navigating the Digital Jungle Guides. You’ll find practical advice, safety checklists, and conversation starters on managing chatbots, smart assistants, and other AI tools that are becoming a part of everyday life. Visit https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/chatbots-and-children-what-every-parent- needs-to-know-navigating-the-digital-jungle-with-scripts-to-start-conversations/ to get started! More resources navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/resources For detailed insights, follow Angeline on LinkedIn And find Andy on Linkedin here And Kat here Check out the Common Sense Media AI and Children resource https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ for helpful reviews and guidelines. AI Chatbots: Who’s Behind the Screen? Why are AI chatbots designed to sound so human-like, and how can that impact our everyday lives? https://www.commonsense.org/education/digital-citizenship/lesson/ai-chatbots- whos-behind-the-screen Raising Humans in a Digital World: Helping Kids Build a Healthy Relationship with Technology by Diana Graber find out more here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Raising-Humans-Digital-World- Relationship/dp/0814439799 Podcast in the Spotlight: Her Tech Life with Kat Cauchi Her Tech Life is all about empowering women and girls to explore the world of technology. Hosted by Kat Cauchi, the podcast highlights inspiring stories, practical advice, and conversations with trailblazing women in tech with a focus on inspiring women and girls to embrace the digital world. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or tech enthusiast, this podcast offers fresh perspectives and real stories to empower and inform. https://www.netsupportsoftware.com/?s=podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgyyE3qHAKR9Rzjes1nRM9CF6m1gGvRuO
