Rising smartphone ownership among UK toddlers sparks concern
A quarter of three- and-four-year-olds in the United Kingdom have a smartphone, data from Ofcom, the country's communications regulator says. Additionally, the data says that half of children under 13 are active on social media platforms. The statistics also show an increase in social media usage among five- to-seven-year-olds—rising from 30% to 38% within a year. These findings come as ministers in the UK are contemplating a ban on mobile phone ownership for all children under the age of 16.
Why does this story matter?
Amid mounting evidence regarding the ill-effects of extensive social medial use among children, the Ofcom data underscores the systemic nature of the issue. Highlighting this concern, the United States government has cautioned that social media presents a significant risk to the mental health and wellbeing of children and teenagers. Notably, there has been a nearly 30% increase in the number of children and teenagers in the US dealing with depression and anxiety in recent years.
What does the data say
Ofcom's annual study on children's online behavior revealed a notable increase in the percentage of five- to seven-year-olds engaging in messaging, voice, and video calls. Additionally, there was a rise in the usage of WhatsApp among this age group—from 29% to 37%—and an increase in TikTok usage—from 25% to 30%. Despite this, 96% of children aged three to 17 are online, with the remaining 4% primarily consisting of three- and four-year-olds. Even among this youngest demographic, 84% are internet users.
'Younger children use tablets, older personal smartphone'
Typically, younger children granted online access use tablets, while older secondary school students are inclined toward smartphones, with over 95% of 12- to 15-year-olds possessing their own mobile device. These smartphone statistics were derived from an Ofcom survey involving 2,480 parents of children aged between three and 17. Ofcom defined a smartphone as a device enabling users to effortlessly download apps, browse websites, and access the internet in general.
Government considers age restrictions on mobile ownership
In light of these findings, ministers will discuss the measures to be taken in the coming weeks, reports said. This consultation is likely to propose a ban on mobile phone sales to those under 16, facilitating parental control implementation on devices, and raising the minimum age for social media sites to 16. Despite the minimum age requirement of 13, Ofcom's findings indicate that half of children aged three to 12 are actively using at least one social media application.
Officials express concern over children's online safety
Michelle Donelan, the technology secretary, said in a statement: "Children as young as five should not be accessing social media...these...findings show why our Online Safety Act is essential. "Most platforms say they do not allow under-13s on to their sites, and the act will ensure companies enforce these limits or they could face massive fines. If they fail to comply...their bosses could face prison." She added, "Protecting children online is our No 1 priority."
