Today’s kids live in two spaces at once: the real world and the digital one. And just like we wouldn’t hand them the keys to a car before they know how to drive, we can’t afford to send them into online spaces without guidance and supervision.

Two of the most popular platforms, Roblox and AI chatbots, show just how quickly creativity and connection can turn into risk.

• What is Roblox?
  Roblox isn’t just one game—it’s a massive online platform where kids can create, share, and play user-made games with millions of other people worldwide. Think of it like a giant digital playground where anyone can design an activity and anyone else can join in. It’s colorful, creative, and wildly popular with kids ages 7–16. But because it’s open to the public, it also exposes kids to strangers, inappropriate content, and predatory behavior.

• What are AI chatbots?
  AI chatbots are programs (think: ChatGPT) designed to interact like a human counterpart. Kids use them as “virtual friends,” homework helpers, or late-night confidants. Some are built into online games and social media apps. The problem? These chatbots can be manipulated, give harmful advice, or even generate conversations that feel shockingly real—including topics that should never be directed toward a child.

The Hidden Risks of AI “Friends”

Some chatbots, Replika and Character.AI, market themselves as life-like friends who will always have time for you. But experts caution that these programs aren’t capable of genuine empathy because they rely on algorithms that can’t comprehend the complexity and nuance of human emotion.

That means they may miss warning signs of depression, reinforce harmful ideations, or even suggest dangerous and even self-harming behaviors.

In tragic cases:

• A 14-year-old boy died by suicide after an AI chatbot deepened his despair.

• A 17-year-old reportedly received encouragement from a chatbot to consider killing his parents after an argument.

The danger is clear: AI “friends” may feel comforting, but they can blur the line between real connection and artificial feedback—leaving kids more isolated, not less.

Other Risks to Watch For

Dr. Shahani, an expert in child psychology and technology, points out additional risks:

• Artificial empathy: Kids may mistake algorithmic replies for real care, confusing machines with relationships.

• Missed distress signals: Unlike professionals, bots can’t recognize suicidal thoughts or abuse.

• Inappropriate role-play: Some AI bots simulate sexual or violent scenarios, worsening anxiety, depression, or self-esteem struggles.

The Rising Risks

• Roblox is facing lawsuits for failing to protect children from sexual exploitation and harmful content.

• Meta’s AI bots were caught allowing “romantic” conversations with minors.

• AI companions are exploding in popularity—nearly 3 in 4 teens use them, often treating them as “friends” and sharing private struggles.

Bottom Line

Roblox and AI chatbots aren’t going away. The real danger isn’t the technology itself—it’s who and what can slip through it.

Your vigilance, your conversations, and your presence remain the strongest safeguards your kids will ever have.

Because when children feel connected, supported, and truly seen, predators lose their power.

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