Staying Safe with AI

AI is pretty amazing. You can ask it questions, get help with stories, and explore all sorts of ideas. But just like you follow safety rules when you ride a bike or cross the street, there are a few simple rules to follow when you use AI. Ready to learn them? Let's go!

The Golden Rule: Let a Grown-Up Know

The most important rule is this: a trusted grown-up — a parent, guardian, or teacher — should always know when you are using AI. Why? Because grown-ups can help you if something seems weird or confusing. They are like your co-pilot. You are in the driver's seat, but they are right there beside you. It is the same reason you tell a grown-up when you go to the park — not because the park is scary, but because someone who loves you likes to know where you are.

Imagine you are using an AI to help you think of ideas for a science project. You show your parent what you typed and what the AI said. Your parent reads it with you and says, 'Oh, that is a cool idea!' That is exactly right. The AI helped, and your grown-up was in the loop. Now imagine you used AI secretly and got an answer that confused you or made you feel funny inside. Who would you tell? Having a grown-up already in the loop means you never have to figure it out alone.

Here are a few more smart habits to keep you safe every time you use AI. First: use AI in a shared space, like the kitchen table or living room — not hiding in your room. Second: if the AI ever says something that makes you feel uncomfortable or scared, close it and find a grown-up immediately. You are NEVER in trouble for doing that. Third: remember — you are always in charge. AI is a tool, and you decide how to use it.