Family internet barometer 2025
In late 2024, we conducted the most recent in a series of surveys of children, young people and parents about online habits. The survey involved interviews with one thousand Swedish children and young people aged 6-17 years, and interviews with one thousand Swedish parents. Both groups were asked about children's online habits and how children and young people experience their time online.
The results of this survey showed that children's screen time mirrors that of their parents, but parents are also aware of this issue. 1 in 3 parents have tried to change their behaviour and reduce their own screen time to influence their children’s habits. 65% of parents are also concerned about their children’s digital lives. Mainly for bullying, fake news and unrealistic ideals, not the number of screen hours.
Children themselves see both positive and negative aspects of their digital lives and appreciate a balanced approach from parents that offers support rather than bans. 87% of children think that the screen rules at homework fairly well or very well, especially when they get to be involved in setting the rules.
Summary of the findings
Children want support, not bans. They ask for help to break bad habits - and appreciate a balanced approach from adults.
- 87% of children think that the screen rules at homework fairly or very well - especially when they get to be involved in setting the rules.
- More than half of children aged 10-13 worry about missing something when they are not online.
- 76% of children aged 6-13 with a mobile phone ban in school state that the school environment is calmer and safer.
Children's screen time mirrors that of their parents, and parents are also aware of this.
- Almost 2 in 3 children of parents with high screen time have at least 4 hours of screen time themselves per day - compared to 1 in 10 children where the parent has low screen time.
- 1 in 3 parents have tried to change their behavior. 33% say they have tried to reduce their screen time to influence their children's habits.
- 84% of the parents who have taken part in the Public Health Agency of Sweden’s guidelines have acted on it. Most common is to reflect on your own use (48%) or talk to your children (40%).
Both children and parents see challenges with digital life, but parents often find it difficult to reach a mutual understanding with their children.
- 65% of parents are concerned about their children's digital lives. Mainly for bullying, fake news and unrealistic ideals, not the number of screen hours.
- Social media is the most questioned. Almost 50% of parents are negative towards TikTok and Instagram, while learning apps are appreciated.
- 1 in 5 children sometimes long to get away from the screen. It is most common to feel this way among 10–13-year-olds.
