Children's digital engagement: the rise of AI and viral memes
Some children are even using smartphones or tablet computers when they are as young as 12 months old, the researchers found. Research shows that children are embracing AI more and more and are engaging with chatbots
Image: Supplied
Children are embracing technology more and more and are engaging with artificial intelligence powered chatbots, the viral phenomenon of Italian brainrot memes, and a fresh interest in rhythm-based gaming.
According to a report, children aged 8 to 10 spend approximately six hours a day glued to screens, while preteens—those aged 11 to 14—average even more at about nine hours. As a significant portion of their lives unfolds online, understanding their digital interests is paramount for parents hoping to foster healthy online habits.
This year's findings indicate a striking rise in interest surrounding AI tools. Notably, while AI applications didn't feature in the top 20 most-used apps in the previous year, 'Character.AI' has recently entered the list. Children are increasingly not only curious about AI but actively incorporating it into their daily digital interactions.
The Kaspersky report noted that more than 7.5% of all searches in this demographic were related to AI chatbots, with popular names like ChatGPT and Gemini at the forefront. Most notably, Character.AI has amplified interest, with AI-related queries surging from 3.19% last year to over double that proportion this year.
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Diving into specific trends, children in South Africa have shown a marked preference for communication and entertainment apps. WhatsApp maintains the top spot, accounting for 25.51% of daily device usage, closely followed by YouTube at 24.77%, while TikTok has slipped to third place with 11.09%. Character.AI, though still a recent entrant, was ranked 11th, comprising 1.26% of time spent on Android applications.
Another fascinating aspect of the report is the emergence of "brainrot" memes, "characterised by absurd and chaotic humour. Phrases like 'tralalero tralala' have taken centre stage, representing a dynamic and rapidly shifting digital culture among children. These memes are shared across platforms, reflecting a shared understanding that may appear nonsensical to adults but resonates profoundly with younger audiences.
Newly captured in the report is Sprunki, a rhythm-based game that combines music with dynamic visual interaction. Players engage by matching beats with lively audio, creating a captivating and physically stimulating environment. The game's increasing popularity is evidenced by its sudden rise in search queries, landing it among the top five most searched gaming topics alongside long-established titles like Brawl Stars and Roblox.
For parents striving to secure their children's online experiences, Kaspersky recommends the following: Maintain open communication about potential online risks and establish clear safety guidelines.
Secure gaming experiences with trusted security solutions to prevent harmful downloads.
Stay informed on emerging threats and actively monitor children's online activities.
Educate children on cybersecurity basics with resources like the Kaspersky Cybersecurity Alphabet.
Utilise digital parenting apps like Kaspersky Safe Kids for managing screen time, blocking inappropriate content, and monitoring location.
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