The Silent Crisis Facing Our Children
Today's children navigate a world of unprecedented challenges. The data reveals a growing, urgent need for new tools to support their wellbeing.
1 in 5
children and young people have a probable mental disorder.
Source: NHS Digital, 2023
>500
children are referred daily to mental health services for anxiety in England.
Source: Children’s Commissioner, 2024
1.6M
disabled children in the UK (1 in 9 children).
Source: House of Commons Library, 2024
1 in 5
parents worry their child (6-12) has no or not enough friends.
Source: Michigan Medicine, 2024
12%
of young people report high levels of loneliness.
Source: GOV.UK, 2024
4.3M
children are living in poverty, a key factor affecting wellbeing.
Source: The Children’s Society, 2024
This is a growing problem.
The rate of probable mental disorders in young people has seen a dramatic increase in recent years.
The Screen-Time Epidemic
As traditional play is replaced by screens, we see alarming consequences for childhood development. AI-driven apps and websites are poised to accelerate this, but at what cost?
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Increased Mental Health Risks: High screen usage in youth is linked to a higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. (Source: BMC Psychiatry, 2023)
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Developmental Delays: Excessive screen time in early childhood is associated with poorer performance on developmental screening tests for communication and problem-solving skills. (Source: JAMA Pediatrics, 2023)
Our Solution: A Friend Who Understands
Introducing My First Friend — a revolutionary smart toy designed to be a companion, a communicator, and a comfort for every child.
Features at a Glance
Simple Emotional Input
Two intuitive buttons allow even non-verbal children to express their core feelings instantly.
On-Board AI Companion
A friendly voice to talk to, learn from, and share with. The AI can teach English, maths, fun facts, and engage in supportive conversation, all processed locally on the device.
Uncompromising Security
No cloud connection for core functions. All interactions are processed on the toy and data is stored on a parent-controlled SD card. Your child's privacy is paramount.
Parent & Teacher App
Receive real-time emotional state alerts and insights. Securely apply updates to the toy's learning modules through its charging hub.
Why It Works: More Than a Toy
1. A No-Screen Solution
We provide the interactivity and engagement of modern tech without the harmful side effects of screens. It's a return to imaginative play, supercharged with supportive AI to foster healthy cognitive and emotional development.
2. Monitor & Communicate
My First Friend is a vital bridge for children who struggle to express themselves. It provides parents and teachers with invaluable, gentle insights into a child's emotional world, enabling earlier and more effective support.
3. A Friend and Companion
In a world where loneliness is on the rise, we offer a constant, friendly presence. A friend who listens, teaches, and grows with your child, building a foundation of confidence and social comfort.
"Let your children say - this is my first friend."
Our Prototype: Simple, Secure, Smart
How It Adds Value
- For non-verbal children: A voice to express feelings.
- For neurodiverse children: A predictable, non-judgmental friend to practice social skills.
- For emotionally challenged children: A safe outlet for complex emotions.
- For every child: A fun, educational companion that reduces loneliness and boosts confidence.
Privacy-First Architecture
NOTE: Conversations and video are NEVER sent to the cloud. They are stored locally on an SD card managed by the parent.
Innovating Where It Matters Most
We see significant gaps in the market. Current technology often overlooks the nuanced needs of children, especially those facing unique challenges. My First Friend was designed to fill these voids.
Educational Tech
Beyond rote learning, we teach emotional intelligence.
Neurodiverse-Friendly
A tool built with patience and predictability at its core.
Interactive Toys
Moving past passive entertainment to active engagement.
Emotional Wellbeing
A proactive tool for mental wellness from the earliest age.
This toy was designed to be your child's first friend, but it's also a teacher, a confidant, and a guardian. We've poured immense care into this prototype, creating a platform with a future as boundless as a child's imagination.