National survey predicts new generation of caring techies
A national survey of 1,000 UK children and young people has revealed that despite spending long hours on computers and mobile phones, children have strong social consciences and respect traditional values as much as any previous generation.
The My Shout Out! Survey 2008, launched by national children’s charity 4Children, shows that children and young people have a strong sense of social responsibility, care deeply about the environment and poverty and that despite concerns about the impact of new technology on their values – old-fashioned pastimes and values prevail among today’s children.
The survey revealed that children spend equal amounts of their free time on old-fashioned activities, e.g. arts and crafts, reading stories and playing outdoors, as they do on the computer or phone. And despite widespread concern over dwindling family values, 74% of children said they eat their evening meal with mum or dad.
The My Shout Out! Survey 2008 shows that in contrast with popular opinion, rather than becoming more and more disengaged from society, children and young people care strongly about making a positive contribution.
Social Concern
- 52% said they cared for the environment
- 53% said they worked against bullying
- 49% said that they currently volunteered to help others
- 38% said that if they had £100 they would give some of it to charity
Technology Addicts
- 66% said they play computer games alone
- 57% play computer games with friends
- 40% use a mobile phone
- 26% use social networking sites
The My Shout Out! Survey 2008 also revealed that children identified age-old traditional childhood pastimes among their favourite activities.
- 77% play outdoors
- 66% play sports
- 51% make arts / craft
- 46% read stories
- 44% dance / sing
Over 1,000 children across the country were surveyed as part of 4Children’s Shout Out 4Children Week. The week sees children setting the record straight and proving that they have clear views and are keen to be taken seriously.
Anne Longfield OBE, Chief Executive of 4Children, said:
“Today’s children have grown up surrounded by rapid technological innovation and have adapted in a way that adults find hard to comprehend. Contrary to popular belief, technology has not distanced children and young people from society, and this survey proves that they care about social issues just as much as any generation before them. We should resist the urge to define children by our own limitations and celebrate a new generation who are able to thrive in our ever-changing, fast paced culture whilst retaining a firm sense of moral duty.”
Notes to the Editor
For further information or a more detailed breakdown of survey findings, contact Julie Watkins on 020 7522 6928 / 07917 870 641 or email
julie.watkins@4Children.org.uk4Children4Children is the national charity dedicated to creating opportunities and building futures for all children. It aspires to ensure that all children, young people and families have access to a creative, safe and child focused environment and activities. 4Children provides an Information Helpline for parents and childcare professionals with advice and support on all aspects of childcare, including details of out of school clubs in your area. For more information visit
www.4Children.org.uk or call 020 7512 2100.
Shout Out 4Children Week (23–27 June) comprises a series of national and local events designed to empower and celebrate children, and boasts a glamorous awards event for the dedicated professionals who work day in, day out to improve children’s lives.
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