How Parents Are Managing Screen Time for Kids: Key Insights from Pew Research

Screen time management is one of the biggest challenges facing parents today. A recent study (Oct 2025) from Pew Research Center provides a detailed look at how parents of children ages 12 and under are navigating technology use in their households.

Technology is Everywhere

According to the study, children are using a variety of devices regularly:

  • Television remains the most common, with 90% of parents reporting their child watches TV.

  • Tablets are used by 68% of children.

  • Smartphones are reported in 61% of households.

  • Gaming consoles are used by half of the children surveyed.

  • Desktops and laptops see use in roughly 40% of children.

  • AI chatbots like ChatGPT or Gemini are beginning to appear, with 10% of parents saying their child has used one.

This illustrates how embedded technology is in everyday life, from entertainment to education, and how digital experiences are now part of even younger children’s routines.

Approaches to Managing Screen Time

Most parents—86% according to the study—have rules around device use. However, consistent enforcement remains a challenge:

  • Only 19% of parents report following these rules all the time.

  • Many parents feel they could manage their child’s screen time more effectively, particularly as children grow older.

These findings highlight a gap between intentions and day-to-day practice. Rules alone are often not enough without additional support, guidance, or tools for building consistent habits.

Emerging Trends: AI and Wearable Devices

Technology is evolving quickly, and children are interacting with new tools:

  • 40% of children use voice assistants such as Siri or Alexa.

  • 11% use smartwatches.

While these devices offer convenience and learning opportunities, they also introduce new questions for parents about boundaries and responsible use.

Parents’ Concerns

Parents are thoughtful about the effects of technology on their children:

  • Many feel that social media carries risks and can be harmful.

  • About one-third of parents experience at least some judgment from others regarding their child’s screen time.

These insights emphasize that managing screen time is not just a personal challenge—it is also shaped by social expectations and broader cultural conversations about technology and well-being.

About Scroll by Choice

We empower people to reclaim control over their screentime and develop positive human computer interactions.

Scroll By Choice was founded to explore the emerging opportunity of helping people coexist and thrive alongside the rapidly evolving AI-based immersive technologies. Live, cohort-based workshops teach individuals how to apply Scroll By Choice’s Digital Wellness framework in combination with insights about their digital footprints to regain control over their digital choices.

We deliver solutions for:

- Organizations who are reimagining workplace productivity & creativity in hybrid & virtual settings,

- Schools & Educational institutions considering modern cellphone and AI-use policies,

- Parents & professionals interested in developing positive digital habits.

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