A. Guttmann
Research Lead covering media
Children and media in the UK - statistics & facts
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In the digital age, the media landscape for British youth is rapidly evolving, with social platforms, news consumption, and gaming emerging as dominant forces shaping their daily lives. TikTok has risen to unprecedented popularity among UK children and teenagers, becoming not just an entertainment hub, but also a primary source of news for many. Meanwhile, the news consumption habits of 12 to 15-year-olds reveal age-specific preferences and platform choices. Simultaneously, gaming has become an integral part of British children's routines, with a vast majority engaging with online games across various devices. These trends paint a vivid picture of how digital media is influencing the younger generation's interests, information sources, and leisure activities in the United Kingdom.
Meanwhile, parents in the UK are aiming to diversify their children’s media consumption. Heightened concerns about digital content consumption come as a large majority report increased screen usage among their kids since the pandemic. The balance between education and entertainment remains a key focus for families navigating the evolving media landscape, and this attitude will drive future media habits of the youngest audiences.
TikTok dominates the media landscape of UK’s youth
TikTok has emerged as a leading entertainment and information source among the youngest consumers in the UK. Data shows that 50 percent of kids in the United Kingdom use TikTok, making it the most popular social media app among users aged between four and 18 years. Its strong position among children and youth in the country is also reflected in news consumption habits. More than half use the app for informational purposes. The platform's popularity is further evidenced by the significant time investment of young users, with children in the UK spending over two hours per day on TikTok. Despite concerns about online safety and privacy, TikTok's dominance persists, outpacing other social media giants like Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook in terms of usage and engagement. This widespread adoption of TikTok by UK youth has prompted discussions about data protection and age-appropriate design, with regulatory bodies like the Information Commissioner's Office implementing measures to safeguard children's online experiences.Gaming is a popular pastime among British children
Gaming has become an intrinsic part of British children's lives, with more than four out of five 12- to 17-year-olds playing online games. The enthusiasm for gaming is not limited to teenagers. Console gaming is more popular among eight to 11-year-olds, while tablets are used as a primary gaming device by children aged five to eight. Roblox and Minecraft are undeniable winners when it comes to time spent with leading gaming apps by kids in the UK. This data paints a clear picture of the growing gaming culture among British children, highlighting its significant role in their daily lives.Meanwhile, parents in the UK are aiming to diversify their children’s media consumption. Heightened concerns about digital content consumption come as a large majority report increased screen usage among their kids since the pandemic. The balance between education and entertainment remains a key focus for families navigating the evolving media landscape, and this attitude will drive future media habits of the youngest audiences.
A. Guttmann
,
Mar 28, 2025
A. Guttmann
Research Lead covering media
