The majority of parents believe children should begin learning digital literacy by the age of four, according to a recent survey. The research, which polled 2,000 parents of children aged 0-5, suggests that as technology becomes more integrated into childhood, formal education in digital literacy should commence before a child enters kindergarten.
Despite 86% of parents reporting familiarity with the term "digital literacy," a significant 76% admitted to figuring out how to teach responsible technology habits as they go. Many expressed a desire for guidance, with 66% wishing for a handbook on the subject. Parents also indicated that their children's curiosity about devices like cellphones, tablets, and computers typically emerges around age three.
When it comes to screen time, 89% of parents believe it is important for it to be educational. "Safe, purposeful technology means giving young children educational experiences that are thoughtfully designed to support their development — not distract from it," said Dr. Amy Jackson, Chief Franchise Officer at Primrose Schools, the organization that commissioned the survey. She emphasized the importance of choosing age-appropriate tools and content that enhance learning and hands-on play.
Managing screen time (37%) is one of several parenting pressures, alongside personal health (41%), work-life balance (50%), and striving for perfection (39%). Forty-three percent of parents actively enforce screen time limits, allowing their children an average of 55 minutes of technology use per day. Beyond educational apps (59%), children commonly use technology for watching videos (51%) and listening to music (41%). Some are also using devices for schoolwork (32%) and "phygital" activities, a blend of physical and digital learning (20%).
Looking toward the future, 90% of parents believe teaching children how to use technology will be important for their future success. To navigate these challenges, parents seek advice from various sources, including their own parents (31%), friends (24%), pediatricians (21%), and early childhood educators (21%).
Dr. Jackson added, "Parents want guidance when it comes to technology in early childhood. They know it can play an important role in their child’s future, but they’re looking for trusted, thoughtful approaches to using it well."
The survey was conducted by Talker Research between June 10–19, 2026, among 2,000 parents of children aged 0–5 with internet access.