An idea for the next birthday present, help with a math problem or simply a question about the opening times of the swimming pool: many families now use artificial intelligence in their everyday lives. At the same time, many parents are wondering which AI services are reliable, safe and also suitable for children. After all, not all AI is the same; the offerings differ significantly in terms of data protection, transparency and target groups, for example.
It’s obvious: AI tools can make everyday life easier. Chat bots and so-called AI agents find and bundle information, explain complicated content, take on small tasks or even act as conversation partners. Many services – from search engines to messengers – now have integrated AI functions. This makes them even easier to access and convenient to use.
At the same time, this also increases risks. Some services place little value on data protection and privacy, collect extensive usage data or are difficult to understand. Others deliver results that are difficult to assess or are not always correct. The seemingly simplest services, which are already integrated into apps and websites, are not always the best. Unfiltered content can also be problematic for children.
The search for suitable AI offerings is not easy. Many tools appear similar and yet differ greatly. We present three possible alternatives:
Perplexity AI – the AI search engine with transparent sources
Perplexity AI works like a chatbot, but compiles information more like a search engine. One advantage is that the AI displays the sources used for each answer. This makes it easier to assess the results and can be particularly helpful for young people doing research for school or projects. Perplexity AI can be used free of charge in the browser or with a paid Pro account, which saves searches, uses better AI models and enables more uploads. The provider states that it uses data for further development, but does not sell it. The service is not specifically aimed at children, but can be a more transparent tool for searches if used with supervision.
Duck AI – the AI with a focus on data protection and privacy
DuckDuckGo is known as a data-saving search engine and browser. The browser does not collect any data, does not record IP addresses and blocks advertising. With Duck AI, the service now also offers its own AI function, also with a strong focus on data protection: queries are sent to the models anonymously, chats are not saved and data is not passed on for training purposes. The AI can be used free of charge, even without your own DuckDuckGo browser. This can be a reliable alternative for parents for whom the protection of personal data is particularly important. Again, this is not a special offer for children, but an option with clearly communicated data protection.
KinderGPT – the AI especially for children
KinderGPT is a German service that is specifically aimed at families. Content is filtered and prepared in an age-appropriate way. Parents can limit usage times or approve subject areas. According to the provider HillcrownAI, no personal data is passed on. The basic version is free, additional functions can be activated for a fee. KinderGPT does not replace supervision, but offers a protected environment in which children can gain their first experiences with AI.
Which AI service is suitable depends largely on what it is to be used for. Together with your child, think about where your priorities lie: quick and easy use, high security or verifiable results? If you are aware of what you expect from an AI, you can also look for ‘the right one’.
Stay up to date on what AI can do and where the pitfalls lie. AI offerings are developing rapidly and new offerings are constantly being added. It is therefore important to stay informed about new possibilities and limitations.
Regardless of the service you choose: Discuss safe behavior when using AI with your child. Explain what data can be given to an AI – and what should remain private. Find out together how AI works and how you can question and check results to be sure. Also be aware of your role as a role model.
And finally: Get to know contact points together where you can find support if problems arise.
