Backing those building responsible AI with and for children

A new report from the UNICEF Office of Innovation underscores the critical importance of developing and deploying responsible AI systems that specifically consider the unique vulnerabilities and rights of children. The report, published on July 1, 2026, reveals that an estimated 20 million children are already actively using AI, often integrating it into their lives at a faster pace than adults. This rapid adoption, particularly for educational purposes and seeking advice, positions children at the forefront of a significant societal shift, effectively making them participants in a vast, unregulated global experiment. UNICEF's "AI in Play" initiative is a direct response to this evolving landscape. This partner ecosystem is dedicated to building and scaling AI solutions that are inherently responsible, designed with safety and transparency as core principles, and shaped by the realities and rights of childhood. The initiative focuses on accelerating the creation of AI-enabled tools that address pressing issues affecting children, such as learning disparities, health challenges, and the impacts of climate change. A key aspect of "AI in Play" is its commitment to supporting diverse AI developers, particularly young social entrepreneurs from emerging economies, fostering innovation where it's most needed. Beyond development, UNICEF is also championing AI literacy for children aged 10-16, aiming to empower the next generation of AI builders and shapers. This educational component is crucial for ensuring that future AI systems are developed by individuals who understand and prioritize ethical considerations. The organization's broader call to action urges governments and private sector entities to embed child rights, especially the right to safety and protection, into global AI governance frameworks. This includes advocating for increased investment in research to understand AI's long-term impact on children's development and well-being, particularly identifying and mitigating risks. Furthermore, UNICEF stresses the necessity of strengthening legal and governance frameworks, alongside corporate accountability measures, to combat AI-enabled sexual exploitation and abuse. The goal is to ensure that AI systems are not only designed with maximum safety and transparency but also that robust mechanisms are in place to protect children while allowing them to benefit from the opportunities AI presents. By fostering a collaborative environment, "AI in Play" seeks to close the AI divide, promote safety-by-design standards, and generate practical evidence to inform future policy and development, ensuring AI serves as a tool for good in children's lives.