AI is rapidly reshaping our world and how we interact with our environment. For children, however, those changes present unique challenges, as their brains are still developing. From birth to around 25 years of age, the brain experiences sensitive periods when learning is at its peak for specific skills, making it exceptionally adaptable but also leaving it particularly vulnerable in inadequately stimulating environments. AI holds significant potential in this context—it can either enhance development, notably through educational tools, or hinder it by reshaping the experiences that influence how children engage with the world and those around them.

To ensure AI supports rather than disrupts development, we must integrate deep human insight with technical innovation. AI can foster cognitive and socio-emotional growth, but only when it is designed with a deep understanding of human functioning. Unlocking its potential while minimizing harm requires building transdisciplinary collaborations across all stakeholders—including governments, international organizations, tech companies, investors, researchers, civil society representatives – NGOs, educators, families —to ensure the development, deployment and adoption of beneficial AI for children.

Everyone.ai and the Paris Peace Forum are co-launching a multistakeholder international coalition at the Paris AI Action Summit.

1. Establish, through continuous and structured dialogue including all stakeholders, shared guidelines that can support evaluation and mitigation of negative impact of AI products used by children. This work will be ongoing and evolve as our understanding improves. It will promote responsible AI development and deployment, prioritizing child safety, wellbeing and perspectives while allowing for equitable opportunities for all actors.

2. Leverage scientific evidence for systematic benefit and understanding of risk for AI products, and encourage long-term studies on the developmental, psychological, and societal impacts of AI on children.

3. Create a collaborative network of experts to provide ongoing guidance through dedicated committees and consultations, facilitating informed decision-making, fostering innovation, and enabling AI design and deployment to be aligned with children’s best interests, developmental needs and rights.

4. Facilitate transdisciplinary international collaborations among all stakeholders while acknowledging each industry’s unique strengths and challenges.

5. Promote AI education and literacy by developing comprehensive guidelines, pedagogical practices and educational programs that empower product developers, educators, parents, caregivers and children with the knowledge and tools to navigate and apply AI safely, responsibly and effectively.

Is your Government, Company, or NGO interested in making an impact? Join the Coalition and collaborate with like-minded partners to drive meaningful change. For more information, contact Anne-Sophie at annesophie@everyone.ai.