Pinoy Kids are Techie: Study

MANILA, Philippines – Two-thirds of Pinoy kids own a mobile phone.
This is according to the New Generations 2012 study released by Cartoon Network.
The survey showed that 65% of kids aged 7 to 14, have their own mobile phone.

Almost the same number or 63% have access to a computer in their homes, making the next generation of Filipinos among the most connected in the Asia Pacific.

This year’s Next Generation survey also revealed that Pinoy kids are adept at switching between screens and devices, from flat-screen TVs, digital cameras, tablets, to smart phones, a development that can be considered a plus.

“There’s a tremendous growth in kids’ access to technology that is set to continue,” said Duncan Morris, Vice President for Research and Market Development of Turner International Asia Pacific Ltd., the company that also owns Cartoon Network.
“The findings show young Filipinos not only have the know-how in the digital space, but increasingly have the tools to consume and experience media across multiple platforms. Filipino kids are starting on making a lead in this area.”

“Two-thirds of Filipino kids with their own mobile phone compared to just over 40% in Australia and 22% in Taiwan,” he added.

Internet access
It isn’t just mobile phone ownership among kids that is increasing.
The New Generations survey also showed majority or 53% of the kids have internet access at home. These kids go online at least once weekly and over a third or 37% use the internet daily.
They use the internet to play games, visit social networking sites, listen to music, watch videos, share photos, and even do homework.

Kids have now turned cyberspace into a virtual playground.

However, the survey also revealed that close to half or 46% of the parents in internet-connected homes said they have not “accompanied” their kids online.

This is what sociology professor Brother Clifford Sorita cautions against, reminding parents to monitor their kids’ internet use.

“There is an abundance of information that young people have access to. That may be a positive thing but it can also be confusing for kids. They may not be able to discriminate or determine which is right and which is wrong,” he said.

Sorita believes kids will benefit from technology. But they still need to be protected from inappropriate contact and content.
”Two words: parental guidance,” he said.

Repost from ABS-CBNnews.com

Posted in: Kids,Lifestyle,Pinoys,Technology