Children's use of educational apps surges during summer break, Lingokids study reveals
A study by early learning company Lingokids suggests there has been a notable rise in children's technology use during summer holidays, with educational apps emerging as the leading choice among digital content.
The study surveyed over 1,000 parents in the United States, focusing on children aged 2-8. Results showed that 68% of children used technology more during the summer break compared to the school year.
Interestingly, educational apps were the predominant form of content, with 66% of children engaging with them, surpassing the use of non-educational games and video streaming services.
The findings highlight a significant concern among parents about the "summer slide," a term referring to the potential loss of academic skills during school holidays. More than half of the surveyed parents reported using educational apps to mitigate this issue, and 60% believed that technology could help their children make academic progress, particularly in areas such as mathematics, reading, and critical thinking.
Nearly 70% of parents said that their children's use of technology allowed them to focus on their own work or personal tasks, a notable advantage for working parents during the summer months.
The research indicated a growing acceptance of technology as a valuable parenting tool. Almost half of parents reported not feeling judged when their children used devices, either in public or at home, suggesting a broader societal acceptance of the positive aspects of screen time.
Cristobal Viedma, CEO of Lingokids, commented on these trends:
"Technology has become an essential part of modern parenting, especially during summer break. Our study highlights the power of educational platforms to address summer learning loss and even help children excel academically.
“At Lingokids, we're committed to providing tools and experiences that make learning fun and interactive, ensuring children can thrive academically and socially while enjoying their summer break."