Nearly 2 in 3 teens and tweens use AI chatbots, census finds

A Common Sense Media survey of more than 1,200 American children aged 9 to 17 found AI chatbot use is now widespread, with nearly half of 9- to 12-year-olds getting around the 13-and-older age limits most chatbots set.

Nearly two out of three American teens and tweens now use AI chatbots, according to the 2026 Common Sense Media Census on tech and media use by children aged 9 to 17. The nonprofit interviewed more than 1,200 children about their use of AI, television, gaming and social media, and how they feel about those habits.

One of the starkest findings is how early the habit begins: nearly half of 9- to 12-year-olds said they had used chatbots despite the 13-and-older age restriction common on most services. More than half of 11-year-olds already own a smartphone, and access is nearly universal by 17. Teens spend about eight hours a day on screens, and tweens about five.

A child uses a smartphone at home (file photo)

A separate study commissioned by the JED Foundation, a mental health group, surveyed more than 5,000 middle and high school students from 21 schools between October 2025 and April 2026. It found that students who turn to AI while struggling emotionally report worse mental health and well-being, along with a greater history of suicidal thoughts and attempts.

JED Foundation psychologist Kayla Anderson stressed that the study does not show cause and effect: researchers cannot yet say whether AI is harming teens' mental health or whether struggling teens are more likely to seek out chatbots. Both reports add to calls for more research on how AI affects young people's schooling and well-being.