Majority (83%) of primary school children use mobile devices in bedroom

Ottoline Spearman

Online safety charity, CyberSafeKids, is urging people to take a 24-hour break from technology today, as new research shows that 83 per cent of primary school children use devices in their bedrooms.

The survey of 8-12-year-olds also showed that 63 per cent are allowed to use their devices overnight.

The research is being published in the run-up to CyberBreak, a 24-hour nationwide break from technology. The annual event – which over 40,000 people have signed up for – encourages people to switch off their devices for 24 hours from 5pm on Friday, October 17th, to reset digital routines and create healthier online habits.

The HSE's Derek Chambers said: “While the benefits of technology are increasingly seen through digital mental health supports and innovations, the distraction and harm caused by constant social media use is undoubted.

"Taking a CyberBreak gives us an opportunity to take a step back and address how we can find a healthy balance between our online and offline lives, whatever your age.”

The research found that screen time is dominating key parts of children's waking hours: 56 per cent of children go online straight after school, 39 per cent use devices just before falling asleep, and 11 per cent reach for them first thing in the morning.

The research also found that boys were more likely than girls to both use devices in their bedrooms (89 per cent vs 79 per cent) and to keep them there overnight (79 per cent vs 58 per cent).

Children themselves expressed concerns about their digital habits: almost half (48 per cent) acknowledged they spend too much time online, 30 per cent feel they waste a lot of time online, and 24 per cent find it hard to switch off their devices, apps and games.

Despite frequent use, only 27 per cent believe that being online is mostly a good thing for them.

CyberSafeKids is urging families to reduce children’s connectivity, which is disrupting sleep quality, affecting concentration and learning, and increasing exposure to online risks. 

Alex Cooney, CEO of CyberSafeKids, said: “When screens follow kids into their bedrooms, it impacts not only their sleep but their overall wellbeing. Children need clear boundaries around screen time and device use at home — starting with switching off at night. 

Taking even 24 hours to disconnect helps families reflect on how and when we use our devices - and start building healthier online habits together."

Dr. Richard Hogan, author and family psychotherapist, added: "As parents, we must lead by example – this means engaging with our kids before our phones in the morning – sending the vital message to them that they come first, not our smart devices. It's our responsibility to help them switch off, unplug, and reconnect with what matters most."

For more information on CyberBreak, and to sign-up, go to www.cybersafekids.ie/cyberbreak.