Kids Use Electronics Devices At An Earlier Age

Children are using consumer electronic devices at earlier and earlier ages, according to a report released Tuesday. Kids, on average, are beginning to use electronic gadgets at age 6.7.

NPD Group's online study of adults 25 years of age and up with household children between 4 and 14 found the starting age for using electronics devices dropped from 8.1 years in 2005.

"Kids are drawn to the latest and greatest digital devices just as their parents are," said Anita Frazier, NPD Group industry analyst, in a statement. "They appear to have no fear of technology and adopt it easily and without fanfare, making these devices a part of their everyday lives."

Comparing the results of Tuesday's Consumer Electronics Trends III with earlier NPD research, the market research firm said televisions and desktop computers were cited as the most likely devices of initial exposure to children at about 7 years of age. Satellite radios and portable digital media players were generally introduced to children at about 9 years of age.

Electronics devices purchased most frequently are cell phones, digital cameras, and portable digital media players. Lower level of household purchases were noted for some newer technologies, including TV-to-computer video devices and satellite radios, along with some older devices such as film cameras and karaoke systems.