Common Sense Media
Most technology wasn’t built with kids in mind. We’re on a mission to change that.
Common Sense Media believes in media that inspires and entertains families of all kinds. In technology that protects privacy and supports communities. In learning tools that prepare students and teachers for success in a connected world. Discover how we’re working to make the digital world better for kids and families.
Our Approach
Together with our partners, we’re working at every level to build a more healthy, equitable, and empowering future for all kids in the digital age.
What We Stand For
From high-quality media recommendations to internet access for all learners, we’re making media and technology safer, healthier, and more equitable for kids everywhere. Learn about the issues we stand for below.
Together we can build a digital world where our kids can thrive. Your trusted guide for a fast-changing world.
Media and technology are at the center of kids’ lives every day. From a very young age, kids use technology at home and at school to connect with friends and family and to document their lives and create digital content of their own. With more and more of life happening online, what catches kids’ attention isn’t always what’s best for them, and what companies do with their personal information isn’t always clear.
See the impact of our work.
Our five key focus areas champion high-quality media, support closing of the digital divide, ensure that students and educators think critically about technology use, and more.
Learn about how we’re creating a safe, healthy, and equitable digital world for kids and families:
Media Choice
Digital Equity
Digital Literacy and Citizenship
Tech Accountability
Healthy Childhood
Independent. Nonprofit. Research backed.
Since 2003, Common Sense has been the leading source of entertainment and technology recommendations for families and schools. Every day, millions of parents and educators trust Common Sense reviews and advice to help them navigate the digital world with their kids. Together with policymakers, industry leaders, and global media partners, we’re building a digital world that works better for all kids, their families, and their communities.
Here’s how we do it:
Common Sense is an independent voice for kids, families, and communities everywhere.
We combine original research with game-changing advocacy efforts to make the digital world work better for all kids. Our advocacy work highlights legislation related to technology and identifies solutions that protect consumer privacy, push for better connectivity for students and families, and hold tech companies accountable to ensure a healthy internet for all.
Common Sense Media rates movies, TV shows, podcasts, books, and more so families can feel good about the entertainment choices they make for their kids. We offer the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting advice supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age. Learn how we rate and review nearly everything kids want to watch, read, play, and learn. Our vision: Families taking charge of their digital choices.
Common Sense Education supports K–12 schools with everything educators need to empower the next generation of digital citizens. Our innovative, award-winning Digital Citizenship Curriculum prepares students with lifelong habits and skills, supports teachers with training and recognition, and engages families and communities with helpful tips and tools. Schools everywhere rely on our free curriculum, expert advice, and edtech ratings to help kids thrive. Our vision: Students thriving as learners, leaders, and citizens in the digital age.
Our programs:
Research Program
Leading the way with original research reports.
The Common Sense Research Program provides unique, data-driven insights into families’ and educators’ experiences with media and technology. Our original research reports provide reliable, independent data on the impact of media and tech use on kids’ physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development.
Latino Program
Creating culturally relevant content for Spanish-speaking families.
The Common Sense Latino Program blends culture and language to connect with Spanish-speaking families and respond to their unique media and technology needs, empowering families to navigate the digital world with confidence. Today, we have an engaged and growing Latino community online and offline.
Privacy Program
Supporting a more secure digital future for kids everywhere.
The Common Sense Privacy Program evaluates popular applications and edtech products so parents and educators can make informed choices about the media and tech they use with kids and so schools and districts can participate in evaluating the technology used in K–12 classrooms.
Digital Literacy and Citizenship Program
Helping students take ownership of their digital lives.
The Common Sense Digital Literacy and Citizenship Curriculum empowers K–12 educators to prepare students to make smart choices online and in life. It includes professional development for K–12 educators in the form of live events, interactive workshops, and self-paced training, with practical takeaways and ready-to-implement teaching strategies.
San Francisco Headquarters
699 8th St, Suite C150, San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (415) 863-0600
New York Office
2160 Broadway, New York, New York 10024
Arizona Office
5330 N. 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014
