Generation Alpha is spending more time socialising and playing online than in the real world, according to new research from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
With unprecedented access to connection and companionship at the click of a button, the study of 1,000 parents of children aged 5-13 found that 57% of children spend most of their recreational time online – a figure that rises to two-thirds amongst 12- to 13-year-olds specifically (67% and 66%).
‘Real-life’ hobbies such as arts, sports and baking have been swapped for virtual playtime with kids spending around the equivalent to a whole day online every week – 23 hours.
