The first systematic study of how generative AI toys affect young children was published in March 2026. Commissioned by the children’s poverty charity, The Childhood Trust, the research focused on children from areas with high levels of socio-economic disadvantage.
The year-long project, conducted by PEDAL researchers Dr Emily Goodacre and Professor Jenny Gibson, included structured scientific observations of children interacting with a GenAI toy for the first time.
Observations made during research show that children engaged in varied and diverse forms of play with the GenAI toy, including asking questions, discussing interests, and playing guessing games. However, children also experienced some difficulties with engagement that appeared to hinder their play.
Findings and recommendations from the project represent an initial step towards understanding the implications of GenAI toys for young children. Continued focus on this area across sectors is essential to ensure GenAI toys are developed and applied with children’s best interests in mind.