Parents say screens and homework stifle children's creativity

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 17:52 · Archive

Three quarters of parents believe screen time, homework and busy schedules are stifling their children's creativity.

A survey of 2,000 parents found that three quarters believe their children's creativity is being held back by screen time, homework and packed schedules. Digital devices spending too much time on (49%) was identified as the single biggest barrier, followed by homework (47%), busy morning and evening routines (29%) and insufficient free time after school (20%).

Parents also confessed their own commitments hindered support for creative pursuits. Sixty-two per cent said work obligations frequently prevent them helping their child with creative activities, whilst 50% attributed this to tiredness and 40% to household duties including cooking.

Parenting expert Sue Atkins said creativity need not involve expensive toys or elaborate activities. 'Some of the loveliest opportunities for children to use their imaginations happen in everyday moments - helping prepare dinner, inventing stories or simply chatting around the table,' she said. 'When children are invited to join in, experiment and have fun without worrying about getting things right, they're building confidence, curiosity and connection.'

The research was commissioned by Ben's Original, which has partnered with BBC Children in Need, releasing limited-edition Pudsey microwaveable rice packs and pledging £200,000 to support children and young people facing challenges across the UK.

How it is being reported

• Screen time and homework crushing kids' creativity, parents sayParents fear screen time, heavy homework loads, and packed family schedules are stifling their children's creativity.Daily Express · 4 Nov, 17:26
• Screens and homework harming children's creativity, parents sayParents believe digital devices are impacting their child's creativity - along with homework and busy routines.The Mirror · 4 Nov, 17:21

In this story: Ben's Original · BBC Children in Need · Sue Atkins · UK

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