Start a family conversation
Make asking for help easier and choose one useful family habit.
Academy overviewUnderstand
Begin with curiosity about the games, tools, and communities your child enjoys. UNICEF encourages parents to discuss where AI feels useful and where it creates difficulty. A conversation can reveal needs that an app restriction alone will not address.
UNICEF: parenting in the AI age
What to watch for
Notice when a family conversation becomes an interrogation. A child may need time to explain what they like before they can discuss a problem. Avoid promising absolute secrecy; explain that you may need help from another adult to keep them safe.
What to do
Choose a calm time. Ask the child to show you one activity they enjoy, then invite one concern. Agree on a way to ask for help, including an adult outside the household. Let the child suggest wording that feels natural.
What to avoid
Do not make access to help depend on having followed every family rule. Responsibility for exploitation belongs to the person causing harm.
Talk about it
“You can ask me for help even when you think I will be upset. We will deal with safety first.”
Practice
On paper, draft a three-sentence invitation to talk. Read it aloud and remove blame, threats, and promises you cannot keep.
Check your understanding
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Show the answer
Correct answer: Discuss their immediate safety and listen
Listen and address safety first. A discussion about household rules can happen separately.
Take one idea with you
Choose one activity to try before your next lesson.