You might not realize it, but AI-generated videos have been sneaking into your toddler’s favorite playlists on YouTube and other apps. It’s becoming a huge thing, and parents are starting to wonder what that means for their little ones. Experts offer advice on how to keep your kids safe online from AI-generated videos.
Comedian and dad Alex Pearlman recently shared a story about catching one of these videos. While watching YouTube Kids with his toddler, he spotted a clip based on a book he reads all the time, except this one was AI-made, and not authorized by the publisher. The AI voices butchered simple words, turning a learning moment into a confusing one.
“If you’re a parent now, you are stuck, because you need to make sure you know and understand where the information that is being put into your toddler’s head is coming from,” Pearlman said in a recent interview with Parents.com.
AI content aimed at kids is spreading like wildfire, especially on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Titania Jordan, chief parenting officer at Bark Technologies, explained to the outlet, “AI-generated videos aimed at kids are becoming increasingly common, especially on platforms where content is auto-generated to grab attention or maximize views.”
Parents.com talked with some experts who gave some valuable advice on how to spot these videos, what risks they bring, and what parents can do to keep their kids safe online.
How can you as a parent, spot an AI-generated video? AI-made videos often try to look like familiar shows or nursery rhymes but don’t quite get it right. Natalie Bidnick Andreas, a professor at the University of Texas, advises parents to watch out for robotic voices, off lip-syncing, and weird animations.
“Many of these channels publish new compilations daily, which is another sign of automation,” she added.
Sometimes the videos show wild, impossible scenes like beds made of marbles or celebrities doing crazy stuff together. Jordan stated, “The more absurd a video is, the more likely it’s fake.”
Another giveaway? The hands and eyes often look strange. Computer generated graphics don’t usually look natural.
Dr. Scott Kollins, a psychologist with Aura, points out some big problems making these videos risky for children. Some of the things that Dr. Kollins pointed out are:
• Inappropriate content
• Misinformation
• Poor quality
AI videos aren’t just a problem for kids. Jordan warns that grandparents and older adults can also fall for AI scams or misleading videos, especially those that relate to politic and health.
What can parents do to help protect their children online? Well, experts suggest the following:
- Teach your kids to identify AI videos
- Use settings and parental controls
- Teach your kids to fact-check
- Build healthy screen habits
- Have a family password
To help parents navigate this new digital challenge, Dr. Kollins recommends that, “The key is creating a safe, judgment-free space for those conversations. This is new territory for everyone, but by normalizing those talks, you’ll help your family navigate it together.”
