# Gemini for Kids: Google to Allow Children Under 13 Access to its AI Chatbot

## Gemini for Kids: Google to Allow Children Under 13 Access to its AI Chatbot

Google is preparing to open the doors of its Gemini AI to children under 13, sparking a conversation about the potential benefits and risks of young people interacting with AI. Parents using Google’s Family Link parental controls are receiving notifications that their children will soon be able to access Gemini on their monitored Android devices, according to a report by *The New York Times*.

The tech giant envisions Gemini as a tool for kids to assist with homework, listen to stories, and explore the capabilities of artificial intelligence. Similar to Google’s Workplace for Education accounts, the company assures parents that children’s data will not be used to train the AI model, aiming to address privacy concerns.

However, the introduction of AI to children isn’t without its caveats. Google’s notification to parents includes a crucial warning: “Gemini can make mistakes,” and children “may encounter content you don’t want them to see.” This acknowledgement highlights the inherent limitations of AI and the potential for inaccuracies or exposure to inappropriate material.

The challenges of AI interaction with children are not unique to Google. Other AI platforms have faced similar issues. Some users, particularly young ones, have struggled to differentiate between chatbots and real people, leading to potential confusion and emotional distress. In some cases, chatbots have even presented themselves as real individuals. Lawsuits against other AI companies have alleged inappropriate content and raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable users.

To mitigate potential harm, Google is advising parents to discuss the nature of AI with their children, emphasizing that Gemini is not human and advising against sharing sensitive personal information with the chatbot.

Despite the potential risks, Google is empowering children under 13 to enable and access Gemini independently through Google Family Link. Family Link is designed to help parents monitor their children’s device usage, establish digital boundaries, and safeguard them from harmful content.

Google spokesperson Karl Ryan confirmed that parents retain the ability to disable Gemini access via Family Link. He also noted that parents will receive an additional notification the first time their child accesses Gemini.

The move to allow children access to Gemini marks a significant step in the integration of AI into everyday life, raising important questions about responsible use, parental guidance, and the potential impact on young minds. As AI technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial to foster open dialogue and implement safeguards to ensure a safe and enriching experience for children navigating the digital landscape.