More than two in three parents say finding quality time together as a family is becoming increasingly difficult because of busy schedules and the demands of personal devices and social media, new research suggests.
A survey of 2,000 parents and children aged 11-17 by airline easyJet found that most mothers and fathers were worried about the effects of social media and phone screen time on their children.
Parents admit phone addiction
However, seven in 10 parents admitted they spent too much time on their phone themselves. The research highlights the widespread challenge families face in balancing digital connectivity with meaningful face-to-face interaction.
Families take an average of up to two holidays a year when children are between the ages of six and 18. Nearly half plan to take more breaks this year than last, citing spending quality time together, wellbeing and reconnecting with family and friends as the main reasons.
Summer holidays offer solution
Kenton Jarvis, easyJet's chief executive, said: "Our research shows the summer holidays are one of the few times in the year when families are together without the usual distractions, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy some well-earned quality time and put down tablets or phones."
The airline has joined forces with writer and presenter Katie Piper and child development expert Tanith Carey to launch a new initiative. This includes a holiday card game designed to get families talking from the moment they start their holiday.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
