More than 200 child advocacy groups and experts have called on Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan to ban AI-generated videos from YouTube Kids, raising concerns about the impact of such content on young audiences.

The appeal, organised by advocacy group Fairplay, highlights growing unease over the rise of artificial intelligence-driven videos designed to capture children’s attention.

Concerns over harmful content

In their letter, the groups argued that AI-generated videos are often low in quality and may negatively affect children’s cognitive and emotional development. They warned that such content can create confusion and distort how children understand real-world concepts.

Experts stressed that platforms catering to children must prioritise educational value and safety over engagement-driven algorithms.

Rise of ‘AI slop’ content

The term “AI slop” has been used to describe mass-produced, repetitive videos generated using artificial intelligence. These videos are often designed to maximise watch time rather than provide meaningful content.

Advocates claim some such channels targeting children are generating significant revenue, raising concerns about profit-driven content creation at the cost of quality.

Demands for stricter regulation

The groups have urged YouTube to:

  • Ban AI-generated videos from YouTube Kids
  • Limit their reach on the main platform
  • Introduce clear labelling of AI content
  • Provide better parental control tools

They emphasised the need for stronger safeguards as AI tools become more widely accessible.

YouTube’s response

YouTube stated that it maintains high standards for content on its children’s platform and currently restricts AI-generated material to selected channels. The company also said it is working on improving transparency through better labelling of AI content.

Growing global debate

The issue reflects a broader global conversation on the role of artificial intelligence in digital media, particularly its influence on children. Regulators and experts continue to examine how platforms can balance innovation with user safety.