A recent survey conducted by Common Sense Media reveals that nearly one-third of children aged eight or younger are utilizing artificial intelligence for educational purposes. The nonprofit organization, dedicated to digital media ratings and research, gathered insights from 1,578 parents to explore how young children interact with technology and media. The findings highlight a significant shift in the way children engage with digital tools, both for learning and entertainment.

AI's Role in Early Childhood Education

The integration of AI into early childhood education is becoming increasingly prevalent. According to the survey, 29% of parents reported that their children have used AI tools for school-related activities. While opinions on the impact of AI vary, 23% of parents believe it has had a mostly positive effect on their child's understanding of academic material. Conversely, 55% found no noticeable change, while 16% observed both positive and negative outcomes, and 5% viewed the impact as predominantly negative.

This growing trend underscores the potential of AI in enhancing educational experiences for young learners. As AI becomes more accessible, it offers personalized learning opportunities that can cater to individual needs. However, the mixed reactions from parents indicate that while some see AI as a valuable tool, others remain cautious about its influence on children’s development. The varying perspectives highlight the importance of balanced use and careful consideration of the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating AI into early education.

Digital Habits and Screen Time Trends Among Young Children

Children aged eight and under are spending an average of two-and-a-half hours daily engaging with screen-based media. Television and video viewing account for the majority of this time, followed by gaming. Interestingly, only 1% of screen time is allocated to homework. Gaming has seen a notable increase of 65% since 2020, while TV/video viewing has decreased by 18%. Short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are gaining popularity among young users.

By the age of two, 40% of children already own their own tablet, and this number rises to 58% by age four. By eight years old, one in four children possesses a cell phone. Additionally, approximately one in five children use devices for comfort, meal times, or to fall asleep. These trends reflect the rapid digital transformation impacting young children. As James P. Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, noted, this shift presents challenges for parents navigating the evolving digital landscape. The organization aims to provide families and educators with resources to foster healthy digital habits and harness the advantages of technological advancements.