New Ofcom study shows children now spend more time online than watching television.
A new report from Ofcom has found that the ‘tipping point’ between modern and traditional forms of screen time has been reached – with, overall, children now spending more time online than watching television.
According to the study, five to 15 year olds spend 15 hours a week online, up one hour and 18 minutes from 2015. Weekly TV viewing, meanwhile, dropped from 14 hours 48 minutes to 13 hours 36 minutes.
Within the preschool space, three and four year olds spend an average of eight hours 18 minutes a week online, up 90 minutes from last year.
They are also watching less TV – but only by 18 minutes, with viewing standing at 14 hours 12 minutes.
The research also shows that 37% of preschoolers and 54% of five to seven year olds are watching YouTube.
The younger age group are more likely to be watching TV shows, cartoons and mini movies, while their older counterparts are more likely to opt for vloggers.
Jane Rumble, director of market intelligence at Ofcom, said: “Children’s lives are increasingly digital with tablets and smartphones commanding more attention than ever.
“Even so, families are finding time for more traditional activities, such as watching television together or reading a bedtime story.”
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