https://litsee.com/blog Children's reading news, explained: what UK research, statistics and guidance mean for parents and teachers of 5 to 11s. en-gb Wed, 04 Nov 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://litsee.com/blog/are-ai-toys-safe-for-kids https://litsee.com/blog/are-ai-toys-safe-for-kids Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:00:00 +0000 AI and children Not yet, for most families: AI toys that hold open conversations with children aren't covered by any UK rule on what they say, and the only official UK advice (written for parents of under-5s) is to avoid them. If one is on the list anyway, check what it records, whether it can say anything at all, and keep it out of the bedroom. AI toys that chat with children are on Christmas lists, but no UK rule covers what they say. What research found, and four questions to ask before you buy. https://litsee.com/blog/children-reading-for-pleasure-decline https://litsee.com/blog/children-reading-for-pleasure-decline Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Reading for pleasure The long decline in children reading for pleasure paused in 2026: the share of children and young people who enjoy reading rose for the first time since 2021, to 36.1%. The decline that matters now starts earlier, because enjoyment among 5 to 8s slipped, led by boys, and love of reading drops sharply in the year children start school. Reading enjoyment rose in 2026 for the first time since 2021, but not for 5 to 8s, and love of reading falls the year children start school. What to do. https://litsee.com/blog/screen-time-guidance-uk-5-to-11 https://litsee.com/blog/screen-time-guidance-uk-5-to-11 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Screens and phones As of 3 November 2026 there is no official UK screen time guidance for children aged 5 to 11: the government promised guidance for 5 to 18s for autumn 2026, and it hasn't been published. When it comes it will set no time limits, which is the right call on the evidence, so don't wait for a number: protect sleep, share screens and swap rather than add. UK screen time guidance for children aged 5 to 18 was promised for autumn 2026. It isn't out, and it won't set limits. What that means, and what to do now.