Artificial Intelligence and Child Cognitive Development: From Content Safety to Cognitive Safety

This preprint presents a policy framework for addressing the developmental implications of increasingly capable artificial intelligence systems. It examines current regulatory approaches, identifies gaps in existing AI governance and child safety frameworks, and proposes policy recommendations that promote cognitive development, human agency, and responsible AI deployment. The paper integrates perspectives from AI governance, developmental psychology, education, and digital policy to support evidence-informed regulation and future interdisciplinary research. It is intended for policymakers, researchers, AI developers, educators, and regulators interested in the societal impacts of generative AI.