# Brazilian public opinion on childhood smartphone use

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/brazilian-public-opinion-on-childhood-smartphone-use
> Updated: 2026-10-12T12:00:11.000Z. Sources: 21. Developments: 2.

A survey conducted by the Locomotiva Institute indicates significant opposition among Brazilian adults regarding smartphone use for young children. Specifically, 82% of adults disapprove of mobile phone use for children under three years old, and 75% oppose it for children aged four to seven.

Acceptance of technology increases with age, as 52% of respondents approve of children having their own devices by age 12, and 88% support use for adolescents aged 13 to 17. The data reflects concerns over lifestyle changes, with 83% of respondents observing that children now prefer screens over outdoor play.

These findings occur alongside the implementation of the Digital Statute of Children and Adolescents, which requires social media accounts for users under 16 to be linked to a legal guardian to ensure parental supervision.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-12: Brazil: Survey shows high disapproval of mobile phone use by young children

A survey shows 82% of Brazilians disapprove of mobile phone use for children under three, amid concerns that digital screens are replacing outdoor play and traditional childhood activities.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brazil-survey-shows-high-disapproval-of-mobile-phone-use-by-young-children

### 2026-10-09: Brazil survey: 82% of adults oppose smartphone use for children under 3

A Locomotiva Institute survey shows 82% of Brazilian adults oppose smartphone use for children under three, reflecting growing concerns over screen time and child development.

19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brazil-survey-82-of-adults-oppose-cell-phone-use-for-children-under-three

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Cite as: Brazilian public opinion on childhood smartphone use. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/brazilian-public-opinion-on-childhood-smartphone-use