National PTA released findings from a survey and listening sessions exploring parents’ perspectives on internet and digital media use among K-12 students. The research, conducted by Edge Research, reveals parents’ mixed feelings: acknowledging the benefits of online resources for learning and social connection while also expressing concerns about potential risks and negative impacts. Parents tend to increase digital access during middle school, although monitoring decreases as children enter high school. Many parents are open to resources for enhancing online safety and mental health support for children navigating digital environments. About 31% see the internet as mostly positive for children, 27% as mostly negative, with 42% holding mixed views. The survey highlights that 65% of parents worry about their child’s online safety, and 60% are concerned about the impact of technology on their child’s well-being.
