Parents are finding themselves in a constant battle over screen time with their kids, spending around 96 hours each year arguing about it. A recent survey of 2,000 parents with children in kindergarten through fifth grade highlights the strain that modern technology places on family relationships.
The survey reveals that many parents are worried about the impact of screen addiction on their children. About 67% of parents fear they are missing out on valuable moments with their kids because of excessive screen use. Alarmingly, 41% are concerned that technology is taking away their children’s childhood altogether.
The research, conducted by Talker Research for AngelQ, an age-appropriate browser for kids, shows that parents have serious concerns about their children’s online experiences. The top worries include exposure to online predators (51%), accidental access to inappropriate content (46%), and screen addiction (45%). Other issues of concern are cyberbullying (44%) and the negative effects on mental health (37%).
Many parents feel that too much screen time is hindering their children’s development, with 61% believing it replaces essential skills like social interaction and empathy. Additionally, six out of ten parents say their children often use the internet unsupervised.
Tim Estes, CEO and Co-Founder of AngelQ, expressed concern over the findings, stating that technology seems to be working against families rather than supporting them. He emphasized the need for tools that help parents manage screen time without the daily struggle.
Parents report various negative effects of excessive screen time on their children, including irritability (27%), mood swings (24%), and tantrums (22%). Other issues noted are decreased attention spans (19%), high anxiety levels (14%), and trouble sleeping (14%).
The survey also revealed that children are becoming increasingly clever in finding ways to extend their screen time. Many parents have caught their kids sneaking devices, changing controls, or using “emergency” modes to bypass restrictions. When it comes to enforcing limits, parents admit to giving in 65% of the time, especially during conflicts that often arise around dinner time.
Interestingly, half of the parents who allow internet access wish they had waited longer to introduce their children to devices. This regret is particularly strong among Gen Z parents, with 63% expressing this sentiment.
Despite the challenges, parents also recognize some positive aspects of screen time. Many appreciate that it allows their kids to explore interests (60%), access educational content (59%), and develop digital skills (58%).
These findings highlight the balancing act parents face. While they want to protect their children’s childhood, they also understand the importance of preparing them for a digital future. Estes noted that technology should enhance childhood, not detract from it, and emphasized the need for healthy habits around screen use.
The survey was conducted online from March 7 to March 11, 2025, and sheds light on the ongoing struggle families face in managing screen time in today’s digital age.