AIChildSafety.org protects children's developing minds as AI reshapes childhood. We turn developmental science into the standards, tools, and safeguards that children need.

Today's children are the first generation growing up fully immersed in AI – from smart toys and educational platforms to conversational companions. Early evidence is concerning: children struggle to distinguish AI from humans, show reduced cognitive effort when AI thinks for them, and report that AI conversations rival human ones. Yet no evidence-based standards exist to protect their cognitive development, social skills, or mental health.

Through our Childhood and AI Lab (https://childhoodandailab.org/) – our nonprofit global research and action center – AIChildSafety.org bridges the gap between child development science and AI engineering. Our Childhood and AI Lab Research Fellowship (https://childhoodandailab.org/about-the-fellowship/) is designed to build the pipeline of researchers working at the intersection of AI & Child Development and to connect them as partners with AI developers, governmental regulators, educators, caregivers, and youth themselves.
Our first cohort of fellows– announced on Safer Internet Day 2026 – focus on what most AI safety efforts overlook: how AI changes the way children think, learn, and relate as they grow. Our fellows come from every continent and speak more than 20 languages. Their research areas span developmental psychology, neuroscience, computer science, education, and child protection. Fellows work across four pillars – cognition, safety, wellbeing, and equity – generating evidence that no single discipline could produce alone.

Founded by John Zoltner, who previously built Save the Children's global Safe Digital Childhood initiative and the TechLab at FHI 360, AIChildSafety.org brings over 25 years of experience applying technology for social impact to this generation's most urgent child protection challenge.

aichildsafety.org | childhoodandailab.org

AIChildSafety.org

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AIChildSafety.org

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