Latest numbers show kids themselves limiting their screen time more than ever

It’s a parent’s dream to see their child successfully deal with their own challenges. And for the past many years, screen addiction is one of the biggest fears parents usually have when it comes to their kids. However, it looks like there is some good news on that front.

A new research has revealed that children, especially early teenagers, are increasingly limiting their own screen time. As per numbers shared by audience research company GWI, almost 40% of the surveyed 2,000 kids (12-15 years of age, spanning 18 countries worldwide) were found to be taking frequent breaks while using smartphones, iPads, and computers.

While there’s still a long way to go, this latest development is pretty encouraging considering the number jumped more than twice from the 18% figure that was reported back in 2022.

This goes to show that the combined effort of parents, media, NGOs, and schools is paying off, as children are now not only aware of the perils of excess screen time, but are also taking steps to ensure a balanced lifestyle, which is essential for good physical & mental health.

These latest numbers from GWI aren’t surprising as other surveys have also revealed similar changes in kids’ approach towards Internet or screen time.

For example, just recently, I highlighted how teens in the US themselves are acknowledging negative effects of social media on their mental health. Over in the UK, a recent report revealed, that a lot of young people now want to live in a world without Internet, or one in which there’s atleast a concept of digital curfew.

However, as I said earlier, it’s still a long way to go, as there are still many regions in the world – like Australia – where kids are spending a staggering amount of time online, with social media taking up the largest chunk of the time spent on the Internet.

Excess social media exposure not only has physical and mental ramifications for kids, but it also exposes them to senseless trends and challenges that can even be life threatening sometimes. And as I recently highlighted, it’s difficult to completely trust social media platforms to keep our children safe online.

So, it comes as no surpise that many governments around the world are either in the process of formulating laws around having a minumum social media access age, or have already done it.

Are you also a parent? What kind of pattern you are observing in your kids when it comes to their digital habits. Let me know in the comments section below.