In a world where technology is evolving faster than ever, children are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to help with their education, as stated in The Journal. According to a new report from Common Sense Media, nearly one in three kids aged 8 or younger has used AI for school-related learning. This finding, based on a survey of 1,578 parents, sheds light on how young children are engaging with media and technology—and how it’s shaping their learning experiences.
The survey revealed that 29% of parents reported their children have used AI tools for learning. Among these parents, 23% said the impact of AI on their child’s understanding of school-related material was mostly positive. However, the majority (55%) felt that AI had no impact at all, while 16% reported both positive and negative effects. A small percentage (5%) described the impact as mostly negative. These mixed responses highlight the need for parents and educators to carefully evaluate how AI tools are being used in education. While AI has the potential to enhance learning, its effectiveness depends on how it’s implemented and monitored.
The report also uncovered fascinating insights into how young children are spending their time with screens. On average, kids aged 8 and younger spend about two-and-a-half hours a day with screen media. Here’s how that time breaks down:
Interestingly, gaming time has surged by 65% since 2020, while TV/video viewing has declined by 18%. Within the TV/video category, short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are gaining popularity.
The survey also explored device ownership among young children:
Additionally, roughly one in five children use devices for comfort, during meal times, or to fall asleep. These statistics underscore the pervasive role of technology in children’s daily lives—even at a very young age.
James P. Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, emphasized the challenges parents face in this rapidly changing digital landscape. “Our youngest children are on the front lines of an unprecedented digital transformation,” he said. “From AI to immersive gaming, they're experiencing technologies that didn't exist even a few years ago. It's a lot to manage as a new parent, which is why we're focused on giving families and educators the tools they need to harness the benefits of innovation while building healthy digital habits from the start.”
As AI and other technologies become more integrated into children’s lives, parents and educators must strike a balance between embracing innovation and fostering healthy habits. Here are a few tips:
The full report, "The 2025 Common Sense Census: Media Use by Kids Zero to Eight," is available on the Common Sense Media website. As technology continues to evolve, it’s clear that our youngest generation is growing up in a world vastly different from our own. By staying informed and proactive, we can help them navigate this digital age with confidence and curiosity.
The survey revealed that 29% of parents reported their children have used AI tools for learning. Among these parents, 23% said the impact of AI on their child’s understanding of school-related material was mostly positive. However, the majority (55%) felt that AI had no impact at all, while 16% reported both positive and negative effects. A small percentage (5%) described the impact as mostly negative. These mixed responses highlight the need for parents and educators to carefully evaluate how AI tools are being used in education. While AI has the potential to enhance learning, its effectiveness depends on how it’s implemented and monitored.
The report also uncovered fascinating insights into how young children are spending their time with screens. On average, kids aged 8 and younger spend about two-and-a-half hours a day with screen media. Here’s how that time breaks down:
- 60% on TV/video viewing
- 26% on gaming
- 1% on homework
Interestingly, gaming time has surged by 65% since 2020, while TV/video viewing has declined by 18%. Within the TV/video category, short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are gaining popularity.
The survey also explored device ownership among young children:
- By age 2, 40% of children have their own tablet.
- By age 4, that number rises to 58%.
- By age 8, one in four children have their own cell phone.
Additionally, roughly one in five children use devices for comfort, during meal times, or to fall asleep. These statistics underscore the pervasive role of technology in children’s daily lives—even at a very young age.
James P. Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, emphasized the challenges parents face in this rapidly changing digital landscape. “Our youngest children are on the front lines of an unprecedented digital transformation,” he said. “From AI to immersive gaming, they're experiencing technologies that didn't exist even a few years ago. It's a lot to manage as a new parent, which is why we're focused on giving families and educators the tools they need to harness the benefits of innovation while building healthy digital habits from the start.”
As AI and other technologies become more integrated into children’s lives, parents and educators must strike a balance between embracing innovation and fostering healthy habits. Here are a few tips:
- Monitor AI Usage: If your child is using AI for learning, ensure the tools are age-appropriate and effective.
- Set Screen Time Limits: Encourage a healthy balance between screen time and other activities.
- Promote Digital Literacy: Teach children how to use technology responsibly and critically.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest trends and research to make informed decisions about your child’s media use.
The full report, "The 2025 Common Sense Census: Media Use by Kids Zero to Eight," is available on the Common Sense Media website. As technology continues to evolve, it’s clear that our youngest generation is growing up in a world vastly different from our own. By staying informed and proactive, we can help them navigate this digital age with confidence and curiosity.