Understanding The Impacts Of Generative Ai Use On Children

Recent advances in generative artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming how children interact with technology, particularly in education and creative domains. A growing body of research has explored the impacts of generative AI on users, highlighting both its potential benefits and associated risks. Much of the existing literature has focussed on adults and teens, leaving significant gaps in our understanding of how younger children, aged 8 – 12, engage with and are affected by these technologies. Our research addresses these gaps by conducting foundational survey research investigating the impacts of generative AI on children’s well-being, with a specific focus on learning through play and creativity. We conducted two surveys: one of children aged 8-12, and their parents or carers, and the other of teachers working in primary or secondary schools across the UK. Together, these two surveys allowed us to develop a more holistic view of children’s generative AI use, both within and outside of the classroom, and how this use impacts children’s wellbeing. This work package report provides insights into the degree to which children are actually exposed to generative AI in their daily lives, and the impact this exposure has on various dimensions of their wellbeing.