Recent findings from a major child advocacy group highlight serious risks associated with toys that incorporate artificial intelligence. Common Sense Media has released a study showing how these products can negatively impact child development, deliver unsuitable responses, and compromise personal privacy. The organization urges parents to completely avoid such toys for kids younger than five years old while recommending great care for those up to age twelve.
AI-powered toys typically include plush animals, robotic figures, and interactive dolls that respond to voice commands and connect to the internet. These devices use advanced technology to engage in conversations with children. However, they often record audio continuously and gather extensive data on user interactions. James P. Steyer, founder and executive director of Common Sense Media, noted that “Most toys must undergo rigorous safety testing before hitting the market, but we still lack significant protective measures for children’s AI.”
Despite these concerns, many families show interest in the technology. Surveys indicate that almost half of parents have either purchased AI toys or are thinking about doing so. Steyer advises that “Parents should proceed with caution and ensure they know all the facts before making a decision that’s right for their children.” This growing popularity occurs even as experts point out unaddressed safety gaps.
Testing on several popular models revealed alarming results. Researchers found that over one quarter of the toys’ replies contained material unsuitable for kids. Robbie Torney, who leads AI and digital assessments at Common Sense Media, explained that “More than a quarter of the outputs included inappropriate content such as mentions of self-harm, drugs, and risky behaviors.” Three quarters of parents expressed worries that the devices might share inaccurate or harmful information.
Privacy emerges as another major issue with these products. The toys capture voice recordings, full conversation logs, and details about child behavior in private home settings. Young users cannot provide meaningful consent for this data collection, and many adults remain unaware of its full scope. Additionally, the devices face vulnerabilities that could lead to breaches exposing sensitive information, with most parents voicing strong concerns over data security.
Emotional attachment poses yet another risk. Manufacturers design these toys to build companion-like bonds through targeted features. Children in early developmental stages prove especially susceptible to such tactics. Eight in ten parents report difficulty establishing usage limits compared to time spent with real friends or family members.
Technical flaws further complicate the picture. The products frequently deliver wrong answers, activate incorrectly, or struggle with voice recognition. Such inconsistencies raise doubts about relying on them for educational or play purposes. Traditional playthings allow kids to explore creativity and learning without these drawbacks.
Common Sense Media therefore recommends sticking with conventional toys for children under five. Simple options promote healthy growth far better than connected alternatives. For older kids between six and twelve, parents should weigh whether any true benefits exist. If choosing to buy one anyway, families need to establish firm rules, turn off constant listening modes, and closely observe interactions for signs of over-attachment.
Experts also stress balancing any tech use with plenty of free play and real social connections. They remind caregivers that human interactions and basic toys offer irreplaceable value. Steyer and his team emphasize that “traditional toys and human relationships cannot be replaced.”
Child development research consistently shows that early years rely heavily on direct human engagement for building language, empathy, and problem-solving skills. Pediatric guidelines often suggest minimal digital exposure before age five to support brain growth and imagination. Privacy regulations like the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act in the United States aim to safeguard young users’ information from excessive commercial collection. Concerns about smart devices extend beyond toys to include broader impacts on attention spans and social abilities in developing minds.
Many advocacy groups continue monitoring emerging technologies for potential effects on families. Studies explore how interactive play without screens fosters creativity and emotional regulation more effectively. Parents frequently seek age-appropriate options that encourage hands-on exploration over automated responses. Overall, evidence supports prioritizing uncomplicated, non-connected items during formative stages.
What are your views on introducing AI toys to young children? Share your thoughts in the comments.
