A THIRD OF children say they can use screens “whenever they want”, while nearly half acknowledge they spend too much time online.

The new research by CyberSafeKids asked children aged between eight and twelve years about their screentime habits.

Some 83% of them said they use devices in bedrooms. Boys were significantly more likely than girls to both use devices in their bedrooms (89% versus 79%) and to keep them there overnight (79% versus 58%).

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

Children themselves expressed concerns about their digital habits.

Nearly half acknowledged they spend too much time online, and 30% feel they waste a lot of time online.

Some 24% admitted that they find it hard to switch off their devices, apps and games.

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

Alex Cooney, CEO of CyberSafeKids, said the research shows the scale of digital dependency among young children.

“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.”

CyberBreak 2025 is an initiative to encourage families, schools, and workplaces to switch off all smart devices from 5pm on Friday, 17 October, and take a 24-hour break from the online world.

More than 35,000 people have already signed up to take part.

Derek Chambers, the HSE’s mental health policy lead said breaks from screens are important for everyone.

“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,” he said.

Dr Richard Hogan, author and family psychotherapist, said it’s important for children to have screen-free moments throughout their day, and parents should model good habits.

“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,” he said.

“It’s our responsibility to help them switch off, unplug, and reconnect with what matters most.”