The Common Sense Census: Media Use by Kids Age Zero to Eight, 2017

Babies and young children are accessing and viewing media in new ways now that the majority of American families have mobile and internet-connected devices at home. Smartphones, tablets, and other devices also present new challenges and opportunities for parents introducing media to their kids for the first time.

Combined with the data from the 2011 and 2013 reports, the 2017 Zero to Eight study gives us a clearer view of how young children's media use has evolved over time and provides a foundation for how we can use technology to support children's learning, play, and growth. Take a look at the infographic and read our blog post for highlights.

This research helps us update Common Sense resources with the most useful and relevant information for today's parents, teachers, and leaders. Together we can make media a positive influence in kids' lives -- especially during the first eight years.

Parents: Try these healthy media habits for young kids.
Educators: Learn how teachers can guide kids' media use.
Make a difference: Help protect kids' privacy from the start.
En español: Lee las conclusiones más importantes

Download Our Fact Sheets

This report is part of a series of probability-based surveys documenting media-use patterns among children from birth to age 8 in America. The 2017 survey includes a nationally representative sample of more than 1,400 parents from all regions of the country, from lower- and higher-income families, and representing diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.