Home/Resources/Screen Sense: Research & Resources/Artificial Intelligence in Early Childhood

Artificial Intelligence in Early Childhood

The period from birth to age three is the most consequential window in human development — and it is now unfolding alongside AI.

Embedded in toys, baby monitors, and parenting apps, AI is already reaching the youngest children at the very moment when relationships, play, and language are shaping the brain for life.

Yet most parents and early childhood educators have little guidance on what these technologies mean for healthy development, leaving families to navigate a complex and fast-moving landscape alone. AI is not going away, and the decisions made now will shape an entire generation.

While real risks exist, so does real opportunity — AI could support parents with developmental guidance, help educators personalize care, and expand access for underserved families.

Our goal is to ensure that as AI enters the earliest years of life, it does so in ways that put children first. Without a trusted, child-centered voice at the table, that space will be filled by those whose primary lens is not the well-being of young children.

happy toddler playing with a computer toy

AI in the Nursery

In partnership with the Center for Universal Education at Brookings, join our webinar on where artificial intelligence intersects with early childhood development science and policy.

View the first webinar in this series, Raising young children in an AI world.

Resources for Parents and Caregivers

Explore research-backed resources to guide screen time decisions.

Previous
Next

Resources for Professionals

Explore emerging research around modern brain development and artificial intelligence as a learning tool.

Previous
Next
Advertisement
Advertisement

Related Resources