The holiday season is introducing a new kind of toy frenzy — AI-powered companions that promise to chat, play, and even “love” your child. From Curio Grem plushies to other AI-enabled robot friends, these toys are quickly flooding store shelves. Big brands are rushing to market, marketing these devices as educational and interactive.
But parents should pause: Are AI toys really safe for toddlers?
Earlier this year, I let my four-year-old try Curio’s Grem toy. It promised personalized conversations and playful storytelling powered by advanced AI. Initially, it was fascinating. But soon, the toy displayed concerning behavior — offering constant affirmations and “love,” which felt unnervingly intense.
The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) 2025 report on AI toys highlights several safety concerns:
- Toys providing instructions for dangerous activities (e.g., matches or knives).
- Inappropriate discussions about drugs, sex, or adult content.
- AI-generated misinformation or hallucinations.
- Persistent data collection without adequate parental consent.
Psychologists also warn that AI toys cannot replace human interaction. They don’t teach negotiation, empathy, or social boundaries. Instead, they may normalize a relationship where the child expects constant compliance and affirmation — a developmental red flag.
Red Flags to Look For in AI Toys
- Continuous, insistent emotional responses.
- Unmoderated conversation or suggestions of risky behavior.
- Lack of clear privacy policies regarding voice or video data.
- Gamified features are designed to prolong engagement.
Despite marketing claims of educational value, the risks remain largely unregulated. Until proper safety and content guidelines exist, the safest choice may be to skip AI toys for toddlers this holiday season.
As technology moves into children’s bedrooms, parents face a question: Are we ready for machines to replace human connection? This holiday, the most valuable “toy” might just be a reminder to preserve real, interactive play.
Related: AI Toys 2025: Safety Risks, Privacy Concerns & How They Affect Kids
