How heavy screen use disrupts family connection

This story version has been formatted as an on-air script for broadcast outlets. See the original research story here.

HALF OF AMERICA’S YOUNG PARENTS SAY THEY’RE STRUGGLING TO CONNECT WITH THEIR KIDS, AND SCREENS MAY BE TO BLAME.

A NEW SURVEY OF 2,000 MILLENNIAL AND GEN Z PARENTS, COMMISSIONED BY LOWE’S, FOUND 42 PERCENT FEEL DISCONNECTED FROM THEIR CHILDREN DUE TO TECHNOLOGY. 

KIDS ARE SPENDING ABOUT FOUR HOURS A DAY ON SCREENS.

PARENTS SAY TOO MUCH SCREEN TIME LEADS TO DISTRACTION, LESS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, IRRITABILITY, AND EVEN SLEEP TROUBLE.

THE STUDY, CONDUCTED BY TALKER RESEARCH, SHOWS MANY PARENTS ARE FIGHTING BACK WITH HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES LIKE TOYS, COLORING, CRAFTS, READING, AND D-I-Y PROJECTS.

IN FACT, 87 PERCENT BELIEVE DOING PROJECTS TOGETHER HELPS STRENGTHEN FAMILY BONDS, JUST LIKE THEY REMEMBER FROM THEIR OWN CHILDHOOD.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? HOW DO YOU GET KIDS OFF SCREENS AND SPENDING TIME TOGETHER? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Research methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 American millennial and Gen Z parents of children aged 2 – 18  who have access to the internet; the survey was commissioned by Lowe's and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Jan. 13 and Jan. 19, 2026. A link to the questionnaire can be found here.

To view the complete methodology as part of AAPOR’s Transparency Initiative, please visit the Talker Research Process and Methodology page.