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The 2025 Common Sense Media Report highlights just how integral screens have become in young children’s daily lives.
By Elizabeth Tenety Updated Mar. 05, 2025
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As a mom of five, I know firsthand how screen time can slowly take over. What started in our house as a firm “no screens for toddlers” has, 12 years later, become something we constantly negotiate. At different times, I’ve had to reset rules hard—like banning screens during the school week and capping weekend time at two hours. Other days, like when I’m sick, those rules go right out the window.
That’s why it’s so important to frequently check in on the latest research, like the 2025 Common Sense Media Census, which offers a fresh look at how kids under 8 are using screens.
The 2025 Common Sense Media Report highlights just how integral screens have become in young children’s daily lives.
For babies and toddlers, screen use is already significant. Children under 2 spend an average of 1 hour and 3 minutes on screens daily. That number jumps to over 2 hours (2:08) for kids ages 2-4 and reaches 3 hours and 28 minutes for kids ages 5-8.
Related: Former teacher shares her ‘secret weapon’ on reducing screen time
The way kids engage with screens has also evolved. According to the report:
Related: Dr. Becky’s tips for setting screen time boundaries during the holidays are a lifesaver
Let’s be honest—screens have become an essential support tool for many parents. We live in a society that is facing an epidemic of parental burnout. Parents today are stretched thin by:
Given all this, it makes sense that screens have become the stand-in babysitter that parents don’t actually have. And instead of guilt, we need understanding—for ourselves and for each other.
Related: Worried about your baby’s screen time? 5 strategies to reduce the pull
If you’re feeling like screen time has taken over, here are some small, empowering shifts to help bring it back under control:
Most importantly: give yourself grace. We are the first generation of parents navigating this level of digital exposure, without a roadmap. It’s okay to set limits. It’s okay to change them. And it’s okay to use screens when you need to survive the hard days.
Ultimately, screens are just one aspect of childhood. And while the numbers may be shifting, what hasn’t changed is what our kids need most: love, connection, and parents who are doing their best.
Related: Study shows parents need to ‘practice what they preach’ when it comes to kids’ screen time
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