High-Quality Media vs. AI-Generated Content

Children's media has changed drastically over the past couple of decades, especially in recent years with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Many parents are concerned about what types of content their kids are consuming and if it's created by AI. AI-generated content, sometimes referred to as "AI slop," is designed to grab children's attention rather than support healthy development. Dr. Jenny Radesky, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician and Co-Medical Director of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, recently shared her research on how AI and technology influence children's learning, behavior, and development and how families can discern between high-quality media and “AI-slop”. 

As Dr. Radesky addresses in her research, the "attention economy" is distributing content to kids and may feature familiar characters, bright colors, catchy music, or surprising storylines that attract clicks and maximize views, regardless of whether the content is educational or developmentally appropriate. For young children, this can mean being exposed to videos that are repetitive, fast-paced, overstimulating, or confusing. AI-generated videos may also include inaccurate information, unrealistic situations, or messages that young children have difficulty understanding.

On the other hand, well-designed educational content is created by experts who understand child development. It introduces age-appropriate concepts, encourages curiosity, and supports skills such as language, problem-solving, creativity, and empathy. High-quality media also moves at a pace that allows children to process information and often encourages interaction rather than passive viewing. However, it's important to understand that young children learn best through responsive interactions and hands-on experiences. Talking, reading, singing, playing, and exploring together help build language, social skills, and emotional development in ways that screens cannot. While digital media can supplement these experiences, it should never replace them.

To ensure that your children are consuming high-quality content, it's best to choose content intentionally instead of relying on algorithms to decide what children watch. Previewing programs before introducing them to your child, selecting trusted educational sources, and watching together whenever possible gives you the opportunity to talk to your child about what they're seeing. It also allows you to ask questions, explain new ideas, and connect lessons from the screen to everyday life. These conversations help kids better understand and remember what they have learned. It's also helpful to pay attention to how your child responds to digital content. If a program leaves your child overstimulated, frustrated, or unable to break away from the screen, it may not be the best choice. High-quality media supports learning and engagement without overwhelming children. 

As AI continues to evolve, families will likely encounter even more AI-generated content. While AI itself is simply a tool, parents should remember that not everything created with AI is accurate, educational, or appropriate for children. Taking a thoughtful approach to selecting media can help ensure your child is spending time with content that supports their growth and development. By choosing trusted age-appropriate media, watching together, and balancing screen time with real-world experiences, parents can help children build healthy digital habits while protecting their attention, curiosity, and well-being.

If you have any questions about healthy media use or your child's screen habits, call our office. We are here to help families make informed choices that support children's healthy development both online and offline.

References:

Zero to Three: How the Attention Economy Impacts Young Children - https://www.zerotothree.org/open-letter/how-the-attention-economy-impacts-young-children/

Zero to Three: AI Slop or High-Quality Screen Content? How Parents Can Tell the Difference - https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/ai-slop-early-childhood/