Research shows majority of children aged eight to 12 have access to mobile devices overnight

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. File picture: Getty

Some 83% of primary school children between eight and 12 have access to internet-connected devices in their bedrooms, with 63% allowed to have them overnight.

The new research by Ireland's online safety charity, CyberSafeKids, also found that boys were significantly more likely than girls to both use devices in their bedrooms (89% vs 79%) and to keep them there overnight (79% vs 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. Almost half (48%) acknowledged they spend too much time online, 30% feel they waste a lot of time online, and 24% 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.

The new research was published as the charity urges families, schools, and workplaces to take a 24-hour break from the online world from 5pm on Friday October, 17 with CyberBreak 2025.

The annual event — which 35,000 people have already signed up for — provides a valuable opportunity to reset digital routines and create healthier online habits together, the charity said.

“The research highlights the scale of digital dependency among young children," CyberSafeKids CEO Alex Cooney said. 

When screens follow kids into their bedrooms, it impacts not only their sleep but their overall well-being. Children need clear boundaries around screen time and device use at home — starting with switching off at night.

"That’s why initiatives like CyberBreak are so important. Taking even 24 hours to disconnect helps families reflect on how and when we use our devices — and start building healthier online habits together.” 

Richard Hogan, author and family psychotherapist, added: “It’s more important than ever for children to have moments throughout their busy day that are free from technology. 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."

HSE national mental health policy lead 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."